Downing Street has defended its handling of the Jackdaw gas field announcement after Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle launched a furious attack on the Government in the House of Commons.
The Speaker erupted after the decision to approve drilling in the North Sea gas field emerged in the media before being formally announced in the chamber. He also criticised Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh for failing to attend the Commons, with her deputy sent in her place.
No 10 defends announcement timing
A No 10 spokesperson said: "It is not unusual for commercially sensitive announcements to remain public early in the morning before markets are open, and this ensures announcements that could potentially have a market impact are announced in a fair and orderly way, rather than igniting while markets are trading."
The spokesperson added: "I would also point out that Parliament were informed at the same time by a written statement ahead of the oral statement, which followed PMQs. Nothing was briefed in advance of this."
Speaker's Commons outburst
Speaking in the Commons, Sir Lindsay said: "It is shameful that this announcement was not made to the House first, and it is an immense discourtesy to the House that the Secretary of State did not come here to make the statement."
He added: "I am sorry that Sky News is more important rather than the members of both sides. It is appalling treatment."
The Speaker said the minister would know the issue has been of great interest to the House, evident from the many questions asked by members from all sides.
Ministerial code concerns
Sir Lindsay said: "It is simply not good enough that it was trailed by the press last night and announced all over the media this morning by the Secretary of State before it could be properly scrutinised in this House."
He added: "And this isn't the first time on this subject, that's what's more shameful. It seems ministers once again need reminding of the Government's own ministerial code which makes clear that important policy announcements should be made first to this House."
Energy minister Michael Shanks replied: "Your points have been noted, and I will absolutely take them back to the department."
