Political opinion: MP Chris Ward calls for vote on oil and gas drilling

Did you know with an ad-lite subscription to SussexWorld, you get 70% fewer ads while viewing the news that matters to you. Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven MP Chris Ward has called for MPs to be given the chance to debate and vote on the future of the controversial Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas fields. Chris made the intervention in the House of Commons today during an Urgent Question on the future of the two proposed developments, following the closure of public consultation periods last month. The Government is currently considering applications relating to both Rosebank and Jackdaw after the Scottish Court of Session quashed their original consents in January 2025. Speaking in the Commons, Chris highlighted the significance of the decisions in the context of the climate emergency and pressed Climate Minister Katie White to ensure Parliament has a say once the Government reaches its conclusions. Chris told the House: 'Given the climate emergency that we are already living through, this is obviously a hugely significant decision for the Secretary of State. 'While I respect that the Minister cannot comment on the merits of each proposal, surely she can comment on how the House will be able to scrutinise any final decision. 'When a final decision is taken, can she confirm from the Dispatch Box that there will be a chance to debate and vote on it in the House?' Responding, the Minister thanked Chris for his suggestion and agreed that the robustness of the process was key, although she stopped short of committing the Government to a Commons vote. Chris Ward MP said: 'Whether to allow drilling at Rosebank and Jackdaw is a decision of enormous significance, not just for our energy policy but for our response to the climate emergency. 'I recognise that there is a proper regulatory process which Ministers have to follow and that they cannot prejudge its outcome. But once those decisions have been made, Parliament should have the opportunity to scrutinise them properly. 'That is why I am calling for MPs to be given a debate and a vote in the House of Commons. Decisions of this scale deserve proper democratic scrutiny, and I will continue pressing the Government to give Parliament its say.'