VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Offshore Industry: North Sea

Asked by Harriet CrossConservativeDepartment for Energy Security and Net ZeroTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 24943

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what her policy is on the future licensing of new oil and gas fields in the North Sea.

Answered by Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

The North Sea remains a vital national asset, supporting jobs, growth and the UK's energy security. We have always been clear that oil and gas will continue to play an important role in our energy system for decades to come, alongside renewables, nuclear and other low-carbon technologies.

The Government stands by the commitment in its manifesto not to issue new licences to explore new fields.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim