UK Delays Jackdaw Gas Field Decision Until After October By-election
Government Postpones Gas Field Approval Amid Political Developments
Background of the Jackdaw Gas Field Project
LONDON, Sept 11 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to delay a decision on whether to bring the Jackdaw gas field online until after a parliamentary by-election next month, the Telegraph reported on Friday, citing government sources.
Previous Expectations and Media Reports
Media reports earlier this month had said the approval for the Shell and Equinor-backed project had been expected on Tuesday, but the Telegraph said on Friday that the decision had now been pushed back until late autumn.
Political Context: The Holborn and St Pancras By-election
Trigger and Key Parties Involved
The October 8 by-election in Holborn and St Pancras was triggered by the resignation of Burnham's predecessor, Keir Starmer, as a lawmaker and is expected to be closely contested by Labour and the Green Party.
Official Government Response
Energy Department's Position
A spokesperson for the government's energy department said they would not comment on speculation. The government has never publicly confirmed a date for a decision on Jackdaw.
Considerations for the Decision
"Any decision will take into account all relevant evidence, including environmental assessments and public representations received during the consultation process," the spokesperson said.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Sam Tabahriti; editing by William James)
