What is the Jackdaw gas field and why is the drilling decision controversial?

Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today. Join today Already a member? Log in What is the Jackdaw gas field and why is the drilling decision controversial? Albert Toth & Karl Matchett Wednesday 21 October 2026 10:00 BST Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Jackdaw gas field 'compatible with Net Zero targets', says Energy secretary UK ministers have approved drilling in the North Sea 's Jackdaw gas field off the coast of Scotland , confirming the future of the previously stalled project. Prime minister Andy Burnham stated the decision will protect jobs and support energy security, while energy secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh maintained it honours existing manifesto pledges. Environmental campaigners and Green Party leader Zack Polanski strongly criticised the decision, calling it 'climate vandalism' that contradicts the UK's green commitments. Experts and campaign groups warned that the field will only supply about two per cent of UK gas demand and will not lower household energy bills. The government is yet to make a final decision on the larger Rosebank oilfield project off the coast of Shetland. In full The Jackdaw gas field and what it means for the climate crisis and your bills