Brian Eno has challenged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to make the “right decision” and reject the controversial Rosebank oil field, as part of an open letter signed by 211 musicians and artists.
The Rosebank field, located north-west of Shetland, is the UK’s largest untapped oil field. The letter, also signed by Robert Smith of The Cure, Thom Yorke of Radiohead, Bobby Gillespie of Primal Scream, Olly Alexander, and David Gray, argues that approving the development would not lower energy bills for UK households, as most of the oil is destined for export.
Climate concerns for the music industry
The artists point to a summer of heatwaves, wildfires, and storms, arguing that climate change threatens the music industry, with live events cancelled due to “extreme weather.” They wrote: “The climate crisis is no longer something we fear for future generations; it is shaping our lives today. Heatwaves are disrupting schools, workplaces, hospitals, transport networks, festivals and live events.”
Burnham, who as mayor of Greater Manchester endorsed the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty at an event with Massive Attack, is now considering whether to approve drilling at Rosebank. A consultation on the plans closed on Monday.
Eno’s call to action
Eno, a former Roxy Music member and producer for U2, Coldplay, and Talking Heads, recalled Burnham’s previous support for artists and campaigners calling for an end to fossil fuel expansion, noting Burnham called the treaty a “lifeline.” Eno, co-founder of EarthPercent, said Burnham “has a choice to make.”
He added: “He can stand with the fossil fuel industry and approve Rosebank, or he can stand with the people who will live with the consequences of that decision. We are already seeing what a hotter world looks like, with record heat and devastating wildfires across Britain and Europe. At this point, continuing to expand fossil fuel production isn’t pragmatism – it’s a failure to face reality. Let us hope he shows that same leadership now. The right decision is clear – reject Rosebank and invest in the clean, secure energy system we urgently need.”
Campaigners and government response
Suzi Shingler, campaign manager at Stop Rosebank, said: “Despite the fact that the UK and Europe have been on fire all summer, it’s radio silence from Burnham on climate change. Worse, he is considering approving the UK’s largest untapped oil field amongst all the destruction. The devastating wildfires that are tearing across the UK are not because of disposable barbecues. They are caused by climate change and are only set to get worse. Burnham can’t ignore the elephant in the room because he’s being lobbied by big scary oil bosses and their cheerleaders. He should remember that, last year, he stood on stage with Massive Attack in support of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. He needs to look out of the window and make the right decisions by saying no to Rosebank.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero said: “The North Sea remains a vital national asset, supporting jobs, growth and the UK’s energy security. We are clear that oil and gas will continue to play an important role in our energy system for decades to come, alongside transitioning to clean power to protect jobs and tackle the climate crisis.”
The decision on whether to approve Rosebank now rests with Burnham and his government.
