Walthamstow campaigners rally against Rosebank oil field as government decision nears

On Thursday 13 November, about 40 people gathered in Walthamstow Village Square to protest against new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea.

The protest was part of the nationwide Stop Rosebank Day of Action, in which campaigners held protests at MPs' offices across the country. Members of Parents for Future were among those who came.

Campaigner Kate Logan said: "We are tired of the government dragging its feet on doing what scientists say is essential."

Why now

The government is expected to decide on the Rosebank oil field by mid-December. More than 80 Labour MPs, including Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy, have pledged to oppose it. In its 2024 election manifesto, Labour promised not to "issue new licences to explore new fields".

The Conservative government first approved Rosebank in 2023. Scotland's highest civil court later ruled that decision unlawful, so Labour has had to look at it again. In October, Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh approved the similar Jackdaw project, which disappointed environmental groups.

The arguments

Campaigners say Rosebank will not lower energy bills or improve energy security, because at least 80% of its reserves are oil that would be exported. The Conservatives say the project would make the UK more energy independent.

Stella Creasy pointed to concerns in Parliament about carbon emissions. She said Jackdaw accounts for 35 million tonnes of carbon dioxide and Rosebank would add another 250 million tonnes, and that this does not fit with the Paris climate agreement targets.