Andy Burnham says government "committed to moving towards renewable energy" after Jackdaw approval

The UK government approved the Jackdaw gas field about 150 miles east of Aberdeen, with production scheduled to begin by the end of the month. Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh allowed the regulator to clear the project, which the government expects could raise domestic gas output by roughly 6% at peak, protect roughly 300 jobs and provide an estimated £2.9bn economic boost. Tax revenue from North Sea production would feed a £2bn fund for cleaner projects. Prime Minister Andy Burnham defended the decision as a practical balance between using existing British reserves and pursuing a longer-term shift to low-carbon power and the 2050 climate goal. Environmental groups and some Labour MPs criticized the approval, arguing it would not lower bills or accelerate the transition; ministers counter that domestic gas is preferable while demand continues.