Musicians Urge PM to Reject North Sea Oil Drilling 2026

Over 200 musicians, including Thom Yorke and Brian Eno, have written to Prime Minister urging rejection of new North Sea drilling. The letter, signed by 211 artists, targets the Rosebank oilfield project, warning it won't lower energy bills or provide security.

Why Musicians Oppose North Sea Drilling

The artists argue that extracting fossil fuels from the UK's largest untapped oilfield will accelerate climate chaos. Estimates suggest Rosebank could produce over 250 million tonnes of CO2, equivalent to 70% of the UK's annual emissions.

Signatories include Radiohead's Thom Yorke, Ed O'Brien, Philip Selway, The Cure's Robert Smith, Bobby Gillespie, Olly Alexander, and Romy. They emphasize that the climate crisis is already shaping lives today, disrupting schools, workplaces, and live events.

The Rosebank Oilfield Controversy

Rosebank lies about 80 miles north-west of the Shetland Islands. The government's consultation closed on Monday, and ministers will decide its future along with the Jackdaw gasfield off Aberdeen.

Operator Adura claims the projects would bring £10.8bn investment and support 3,500 jobs at peak construction. However, environmental activists counter that most oil would likely be exported, not benefiting UK consumers.

Artists' Letter to the Prime Minister

The letter, also signed by Massive Attack, Brian Eno, and Anoushka Shankar, calls on PM to reject the project. Eno, co-founder of EarthPercent, said Burnham previously stood with artists against fossil fuel expansion, so he has a choice to make.

• 211 musicians signed the letter against North Sea drilling.
• Rosebank could produce 250 million tonnes of CO2.
• Most oil from Rosebank likely to be exported, not reduce UK bills.
• Artists urge PM to stand with climate campaigners, not fossil fuel giants.

Impact on Energy Bills and Security

Musicians argue the project won't lower energy bills or provide energy security. Since most oil would be exported, the UK would still rely on global markets. Instead, they advocate for renewable energy investments.

The government's decision on Rosebank and Jackdaw is pending. Environmental groups and artists are watching closely, hoping for a shift toward cleaner energy policies.

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