Rishi Sunak has stated that approving new licences for oil and gas drilling is in line with the government’s net zero plan. He argued that domestic production of oil and gas results in lower carbon emissions compared to importing it from other countries. When asked about the approval of the Rosebank oil and gas field in the North Sea, Sunak stated that decisions would be made based on normal procedures, but emphasized the importance of utilizing domestic energy sources for decades to come.
In other news, members of the National Education Union have accepted a 6.5% pay rise for teachers in England and have voted to end strike action. The education secretary, Gillian Keegan, welcomed this development, stating that it is good news for teachers, parents, and students.
The Department for Transport’s review of low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) does not have a defined timeline, according to Downing Street. The aim is to conclude the review as quickly as possible and to take evidence-based action afterward. The government’s position on LTNs aligns with the belief that local consent is important and that these schemes should work for residents, businesses, and emergency services. The impact of LTNs is currently being reviewed to ensure that people have choice and that those who rely on cars are not unduly burdened.
Downing Street denied that Rishi Sunak’s language on protecting motorists has changed as a result of the recent Uxbridge and Ruislip by-election. The press secretary reaffirmed the importance of local consent regarding LTNs and highlighted the need for proportionate and pragmatic measures in energy policies.
The UK government plans to award over 100 new oil and gas licences in the autumn, according to Rishi Sunak’s press secretary. The precise timeline depends on the bidding process, but the government is confident that at least 100 licences will be issued. However, the press secretary did not comment on the timing of the next general election.
The Scottish Greens criticized the government’s decision to grant new oil and gas licences, describing it as a disregard for the environment and future generations. They argued that focusing on green energy and renewable resources would be a safer and more sustainable option.
Downing Street insisted that the approval of new oil and gas licences is perfectly compatible with the UK’s net zero targets. They stated that using domestic resources is more economically and environmentally beneficial compared to importing oil and gas from other countries.
Scientists cautiously welcomed the decision to fund more carbon capture and storage (CCS), but expressed concerns that it could enable further extraction of oil and gas that cannot be adequately stored. They argued that new extraction should be contingent upon responsible CO2 disposal, and called for separation between CCS funding and new oil and gas licences.