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Rosebank's oil would be sold internationally, BBC explainer notes

James Cook contrasts the proposed oil field with the approved Jackdaw gas project, before setting out the climate and jobs arguments.

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BBC Politics Story of October 26, 2026Trari Newsroom

Why this story? The video is running at 26,050 views a day, 10 times its usual pace (2,505).

What's so controversial about the Rosebank oil field? #Rosebank #Jackdaw #Oil #BBCNews

The destination matters. Reporting from an offshore platform in an orange jumpsuit and green hard hat, BBC Scotland editor James Cook draws a distinction between two energy projects off Scotland: gas intended for British homes and businesses, and oil destined for international markets.

Jackdaw, Cook explains, has been approved to supply gas. Rosebank's oil would instead leave by tanker. "But the oil from this field in the North Atlantic, known as Rosebank, won't go directly to the UK," he says.

The short BBC Politics explainer is drawing fresh attention four days after publication, adding about 26,000 views in a day, roughly ten times its usual daily pace.

Its central question goes beyond where the oil would end up. Cook identifies climate change as Rosebank's biggest controversy, with footage of protesters opposing new drilling because of the emissions from fossil fuels. He then sets out the operating company's case: protecting well-paid jobs and generating tax revenue.

The report leaves the decision where it belongs, with the UK government. Cook closes with offshore workers hoping for approval, rather than presenting Rosebank as already cleared to proceed.

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