MPs should be given the chance to debate and vote on the future of new oil and gas fields, an MP has said.
Chris Ward, MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, made the call in the House of Commons during an urgent question about the Rosebank and Jackdaw developments.
The government is currently considering applications for both projects after the Scottish Court of Session quashed their original consents in January 2025.
Mr Ward said: "Given the climate emergency that we are already living through, this is obviously a hugely significant decision for the secretary of state.
"While I respect that the minister cannot comment on the merits of each proposal, surely she can comment on how the House will be able to scrutinise any final decision.
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"When a final decision is taken, can she confirm from the dispatch box that there will be a chance to debate and vote on it in the House?"
The minister did not commit to a Commons vote but said the decision-making process must be robust.
Mr Ward later said: "Whether to allow drilling at Rosebank and Jackdaw is a decision of enormous significance, not just for our energy policy but for our response to the climate emergency.
"Residents across Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven have been raising their concerns about this with me, and I want to make sure their voices are heard."
He said MPs should have a vote on any final decision, arguing that "decisions of this scale deserve proper democratic scrutiny."
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