A coalition of over 200 musicians has submitted a letter to the prime minister opposing proposed oil and gas extraction projects in the North Sea. The signatories include artists from major acts such as Massive Attack, Radiohead, the Cure, and the xx, alongside solo performers and electronic musicians. The letter specifically targets the Rosebank oilfield, located approximately 80 miles northwest of the Shetland Islands, and calls for the government to reject the development.
The government’s consultation periods for both the Rosebank oilfield and the Jackdaw gasfield have recently concluded, leaving ministers to make final decisions on whether to approve the projects. Adura, the company developing both sites, has projected significant economic benefits, estimating £10.8 billion in investment and support for up to 3,500 jobs during peak construction phases, with around 880 permanent positions during production.
Opponents of the projects argue that fossil fuel extraction would accelerate climate change. Environmental assessments indicate that Rosebank alone could generate over 250 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions throughout its operational lifetime, equivalent to roughly 70 percent of the UK’s annual emissions. The musicians’ letter emphasizes current climate impacts, referencing extreme heat affecting schools, hospitals, and transportation networks.
Brian Eno, co-founder of the campaign group EarthPercent, characterized the decision as a choice between supporting fossil fuel expansion or prioritizing the welfare of future generations. Environmental data shows that extreme heat has contributed to record hospital emergency department visits, with over 2.4 million patients attending in each of May, June, and July. The government spokesperson responded that the North Sea remains strategically important for energy security and jobs, while committing to parallel efforts in clean energy transition.
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