High Court Upholds UK's Oil and Gas Exploration Licences

The UK's High Court has ruled lawful the issuance of over two dozen oil and gas exploration licences, opposing the challenge by Oceana UK, which claimed the government overlooked climate impact and marine life risks. The decision highlights ongoing legal battles concerning fossil fuel exploration.

In a significant legal verdict, London's High Court on Friday upheld Britain's issuance of more than two dozen oil and gas exploration licences, dismissing the legal challenge posed by Marine conservation organisation Oceana UK.

Oceana UK had challenged the licences, arguing that the British government failed to consider the impact on climate change and the risk to protected marine life. These licences were granted in May 2024 by the prior British government.

The UK's energy department defended its stance by stating that the licences only permit early exploration, insisting that further environmental assessments will precede any oil or gas production. This court case is one among numerous legal efforts by environmental groups to curb fossil fuel exploration with variable outcomes.

(With inputs from agencies.)