Lib Dem leader Ed Davey says party has no ceiling on ambitions, backs Jackdaw gas field

London – The leader of the Liberal Democrats has publicly expressed support for the Jackdaw gas field project, a development that has drawn criticism from environmental groups and remains under review by the UK government. The Jackdaw field, located in the Irish Sea, is slated to deliver several hundred million cubic metres of natural gas annually and is positioned as part of the government's strategy to secure energy supplies amid rising demand.

Government officials indicate that a decision on the project's approval is forthcoming, with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero expected to issue a final ruling in the coming weeks. While the Liberal Democrat leader’s endorsement aligns with the party’s broader emphasis on a balanced energy transition, opponents argue that the field could undermine climate targets. The outcome of the approval process will determine whether the Jackdaw field proceeds to development, adding a new source of domestic gas to the UK energy mix.