What are the arguments for and against drilling in the North Sea?

We take a look at the controversial drilling plans for sites in the North Sea and who is for and against them.

Image source, PA Media Image caption, Lots of people have been voicing opinions on the plans Beneath the sea around the UK, there are some untapped supplies of oil and natural gas.

Both are fossil fuels which can be used for things like heating homes or making electricity.

Plans to drill on two different sites, called Rosebank and Jackdaw, are currently being looked at and the government will have to decide if they should go ahead.

Supporters say it would provide lots of jobs, energy and money for the UK but others worry about the impact on the environment and climate change .

Published 8 October 2022 Clean energy: Why are some people upset over the government's plans?

Published 16 September Where and what are Jackdaw and Rosebank?

Jackdaw, near Aberdeen, is a gas field which its operators say could be connected to the UK network within months.

Rosebank, near Shetland, is Britain's largest oil field which hasn't been used yet.

Both projects were approved by the previous Conservative UK government, but environmental groups challenged the decisions in court.

A judge ruled that the climate impact of burning the oil and gas from the sites had not properly considered.

Image source, Getty Images Image caption, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham's government must decide what to do The companies provided updated information and it was put out for public consultation, meaning people and organisations were given a chance to share their views on it.

So now, the UK government will decide whether or not to give the plans the go ahead.

Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Donald Trump has voiced his support for the UK drilling in the North Sea Cost of living : Supporters say producing oil and gas in the UK could help provide more affordable fuel as this could be a more secure energy supply and there wouldn't be a need to buy as much fuel from other countries.

Money for the UK economy : Oil and gas companies pay taxes and spend money on workers and businesses which could help the UK economy.