UK approves new gas field in the North Sea amid concerns about energy security

The UK government has approved the development of a major new gas field in the North Sea as the war in the Middle East deepens concerns about energy security globally. The Jackdaw gas field, located 150 miles east of Aberdeen in Scotland, “will start to supply gas to British homes and businesses from as early as the end of this month,” the government said in a statement announcing its decision to greenlight production. “The Jackdaw decision is expected to increase domestic gas production by around 6% at its peak – supporting the UK’s gas supply over its lifespan of up to 11 years, boosting our energy security, protecting hundreds of jobs and adding an estimated £2.9 billion ($3.8 billion) to the UK economy,” the statement added. The decision, which is likely to anger environmental campaign groups, comes three months after US President Donald Trump described Britain’s North Sea oil and gas reserves as “invaluable” and welcomed any potential plans to allow drilling. This is a developing story and will be updated.