The debate over new offshore oil and gas projects in the North Sea is heating up, putting Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s commitment to growth to the test. The Rosebank and Jackdaw schemes, which could meet close to 10% of the country’s energy needs, are facing opposition from environmentalists within the Labour Party.

A recent ruling by a Scottish court deemed the consents for these projects invalid on the grounds that they did not adequately consider the emissions from burning fossil fuels. While existing licenses remain valid, Labour has promised to block future projects. However, Prime Minister Starmer has reportedly assured Equinor, the company behind Rosebank, that permission will be granted once proper consents are obtained.

This decision has sparked a fierce debate within the Labour Party, with some backbenchers accusing the government of putting corporate interests above environmental concerns. Former Labour energy spokesman Barry Gardiner criticized the Prime Minister and Chancellor for prioritizing Equinor over the will of the voters.

Leading the charge against the projects is Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, who has denounced Rosebank as a waste of taxpayer money and a threat to the climate. Despite pressure to clarify the government’s stance, Miliband has evaded the question, stating that due process will be followed.

The argument against these projects is puzzling, as the country will be forced to rely on imports for its energy needs if domestic extraction is halted. This could result in higher emissions and a loss of jobs and tax revenues. Supporters of blocking the projects, driven by a desire to set a global example, must justify the potential consequences to their constituents.

If Labour continues to oppose the projects, Prime Minister Starmer will need to assert his commitment to growth and push back against the party’s objections. Failure to do so could undermine his credibility and expose his growth goals as empty rhetoric.