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UK debate over North Sea drilling, Miliband under pressure

newsApr 9, 20264371

Ed Miliband is under pressure to block new North Sea oil and gas drilling amid claims new licences would chiefly benefit Nigel Farage's Reform UK. Commentators and environmentalists point to Carbon Brief research that disputes the idea more domestic drilling will cut bills or boost energy security. Columnists urge Labour to prioritise renewables, arguing they will create jobs, lower bills, and meet climate targets. The choice matters politically because backing new drilling could hand Reform UK a potent attack line and undermine Labour's climate credibility ahead of the next election.

Key Highlights

Ed Miliband faces pressure to block new North Sea oil and gas drilling.
Commentators say new drilling would chiefly benefit Nigel Farage's Reform UK.
Carbon Brief analysis challenges claims that more drilling will lower bills or emissions.
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