Public support for UK oil and gas production is higher than ever as polling shows the majority of 2024 Labour voters recognise its value to the economy.
The study commissioned by Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) shows 72% of the voters agree with the statement ‘oil and gas are essential for the foreseeable future’ and a further 62% agree that stopping using oil and gas could cause significant damage to the economy.
The survey also showed 62% of Labour voters believe the UK should continue to produce oil to meet domestic demand, with 57% agreeing that the UK should increase its domestic oil and gas production.
The survey follows the government’s decision to approve the Jackdaw gas field, which is expected to supply 1.4 million homes, while the country is still awaiting a decision on the Rosebank oil field.
Reflecting on the decision to greenlight the Jackdaw gas field, 68% of polled Labour Party voters agreed that it was the correct decision, with only 17% disagreeing with the Government.
David Whitehouse, Chief Executive of OEUK, said: “These results offer government an opportunity to align with public opinion and start working through the pipeline of North Sea projects that are awaiting approval.
“The public are clearly in agreement with the new Prime Minister’s ‘pragmatic’ policy on the North Sea, which will once again be tested as the final decision on Rosebank is made in the coming months. Investing in North Sea energy strengthens Britain’s economy, supports UK supply chains and industrial communities, and builds our energy resilience.”
The majority of Liberal Democrat and Conservative voters also support the continuation of UK oil production.
Other data from the survey showed men have a more favourable view of the UK’s oil and gas industry than women, at 46% compared to 33%. Furthermore, at 39% a higher percentage of 18-34 age range view the industry positively than those aged 35-49 (31%) or those aged 50-64 (35%).
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