Musicians Challenge UK on Rosebank Oil: Eno & Stars Demand No Go!

Veteran musician Brian Eno, alongside over 200 other prominent artists, has issued a powerful challenge to Andy Burnham, urging him to reject the controversial Rosebank oil field development in the North Sea. This collective voice includes influential figures like The Cure's Robert Smith, Radiohead's Thom Yorke, Primal Scream's Bobbie Gillespie, singer-actor Olly Alexander, and singer-songwriter David Gray. Their open letter highlights deep concerns over climate change and the proposed project's economic impact.

The artists argue that approving the Rosebank development, which represents the UK's largest untapped oil field, will not alleviate energy bill pressures for UK households. Instead, they contend that the vast majority of the oil extracted would be destined for export. This economic inefficiency is coupled with a stark warning about the escalating climate crisis. After a summer marked by severe heatwaves, devastating wildfires, and intense storms, the musicians emphasize that extreme weather events are already directly impacting the music industry, leading to cancelled festivals and live events.

Their letter underscores the immediate threat posed by climate change, stating, "The climate crisis is no longer something we fear for future generations; it is shaping our lives today." This intervention comes at a critical time as Mr. Burnham and his administration consider whether to greenlight drilling at Rosebank, following the closure of a public consultation. The musicians are pressing for a decision that aligns with climate goals, recalling that Andy Burnham, during his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, previously endorsed the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, an action he took at an event alongside the band Massive Attack, who are also signatories to the current letter. The call to action is clear: prioritize sustainable energy and climate protection over new fossil fuel extraction.

#RosebankOil #ClimateAction #BrianEno