Edward Miliband, a Labour Party figure who is widely discussed tipped for the chancellor’s role, has suggested he would approve the Jackdaw gas project in the offshore area off Aberdeen.
The sign‑off the approval is seen as a step to lock in the Treasury posting.
Miliband told the Telegraph that London’s key markets still view him as the least favoured candidate for the chancellorship.
The Jackdaw field, presently operated by Spirit Energy, is situated close to Aberdeen and is the subject of ongoing development plans that are being pursued.
Independent observers note the project’s output would leave little or no mark on global emissions.
Spirit Energy asserts the project will not significantly affect climate change.