Union warns North Sea walkouts could severely disrupt UK fuel supplies as offshore strikes intensify

Walkouts planned across platforms

Workers at oil rigs across the ageing North Sea basin are preparing to strike in the coming weeks. The action reflects growing tensions between trade unions and oil companies.

A 48-hour strike is planned from Tuesday by Wood Group workers contracted to Harbour Energy’s Britannia, Jasmine, Judy, Lomond and North Everest platforms. A third 48-hour stoppage is scheduled for 3 November, according to Unite and the RMT.

Pipeline disruption concerns

The planned action also involves workers at five Apache platforms connected to the Forties Pipeline System. The system is responsible for about 30% of UK oil production. Unite says a production halt could sharply lower pressure in the pipeline system and disrupt UK fuel supplies. The union’s warning describes a possible consequence, rather than a reported disruption so far.

Disputes over pay and policy

North Sea oil companies and unions have clashed as firms cut investment in UK assets, citing the country’s energy policies and tax regime. Apache, which is based in Texas, plans to end all North Sea operations by the end of 2029.

Apache blames the “onerous financial” effect of the government’s windfall tax, under which oil companies pay a total tax rate of 78% on profits. The company said its offer includes a 4% pay increase for bargaining-unit employees, whose earnings it described as among the UK’s highest, with offshore rotas averaging 153 working days a year.

Earlier strike had limited participation

The account of the planned action identifies both Harbour-linked workers and staff at five Apache platforms. Unite’s supply warning specifically concerns the Apache platforms and the Forties Pipeline System.