Ed Miliband could be preparing for a dramatic shift on North Sea drilling as Labour’s incoming leadership looks to reassure markets and strengthen Britain’s energy security.
The Energy Secretary is understood to favour approving the controversial Jackdaw gas field off the Aberdeen coast if he becomes Chancellor under expected Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
The move would mark a major change for Mr Miliband, who has long been associated with Labour’s Net Zero ambitions.
Insiders say he sees Jackdaw as a chance to show financial markets that Labour is willing to take a more pragmatic approach on energy.
One source said: “Ed Miliband sees it as a way of showing willing to the City.”
Any decision is unlikely before a public consultation ends on August 10, with officials wary of triggering a legal challenge.
Supporters argue Jackdaw could help protect Britain from future energy shocks, with the project reportedly capable of supplying enough gas to heat around 1.4 million homes this winter.
Energy industry figures say the field could provide a vital boost to domestic supplies, particularly during periods of extreme weather or international disruption.
The project has received backing from trade unions, Conservatives, former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair and US President Donald Trump, who have all urged Britain to expand domestic energy production.
But environmental groups have condemned the move, warning that new North Sea drilling would undermine climate commitments.
Robert Palmer of campaign group Uplift said further drilling would do little to improve energy security and argued investment should instead focus on renewable industries.
The Jackdaw decision could become an early test for Andy Burnham’s leadership — revealing whether Labour’s green ambitions will remain unchanged or be reshaped by the realities of governing.
For Mr Miliband, the choice is stark: defend his environmental legacy, or embrace a new energy strategy focused on affordability and security.
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