Voters back North Sea oil and gas as UK policy tightens
(WO) - A majority of Scottish voters support continued development of North Sea oil and gas resources, according to new nationwide polling released this week, underscoring growing public concern over job losses, energy security and rising reliance on imports as domestic production declines.
The survey, conducted by Survation for True North Advisors, found that 58% of respondents favor full development and extraction of North Sea oil and gas, compared with just 13% opposed. Three-quarters of voters said the UK should meet as much of its energy demand as possible from domestic North Sea supply rather than imports.
The polling comes as the UK oil and gas sector faces mounting pressure from declining production levels and ongoing policy constraints, including the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), which was introduced in 2022 during a period of high commodity prices and is scheduled to remain in place until 2030. Industry leaders have linked the levy to reduced investment and workforce reductions across the sector.
UK government data show domestic oil and gas output has fallen to record-low levels, increasing reliance on imported supply with higher lifecycle emissions and limited economic benefit. More than 60% of survey respondents said North Sea energy companies have a positive impact on the UK economy, while concerns over employment and energy affordability ranked prominently among voter priorities.
The survey also highlights a growing contrast between UK and Norwegian offshore policy. Norway this week awarded dozens of new offshore oil and gas licenses, citing the need to manage long-term production decline while sustaining jobs, value creation and energy security. In the UK, a ban on new exploration licenses remains in effect alongside the EPL.
According to the North Sea Transition Authority, billions of barrels of recoverable oil and gas resources remain in the UK continental shelf, though much of that potential is considered at risk without improved investment conditions.
True North Advisors said the polling points to a widening gap between public sentiment and current policy as Scotland approaches parliamentary elections later this year. While voters broadly support long-term energy transition goals, the results suggest strong backing for continued domestic oil and gas production as part of a pragmatic approach to energy security and economic stability.
Image: Offshore Energies UK (OEUK)
