Christian climate activists have staged a “die-in” outside the Treasury in Westminster, urging the government to reject plans for an oilfield expansion. 

Six campaigners from Christian Climate Action (CCA) laid down on Wednesday, aiming to highlight the “real cost to humanity” behind the potential Rosebank site. Activists were covered in fake blood as they read aloud descriptions of deaths caused by famine, heat and drought. 

After being given initial approval, the Scottish courts ruled against the project in January 2025 with oil company Equinor then forced to draw up an environmental impact assessment. The government expected to decide on the revised application by July. 

There is speculation on whether Chancellor Rachael Reeves will give Rosebank the go-ahead, because of potential tax revenues. 

The oilfield would produce 200 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, according to the CCA, equivalent to 70% of the UK’s annual emissions. It would also equate to the annual emissions of the world’s 28 poorest countries combined, which includes Ethiopia, Uganda and Mozambique. 

Rosebank’s oil would mainly be for export, prompting criticism that it would not lower household energy bills and promote energy independence. 

Rev James Grote, a Baptist minister, said: “Every year we delay moving away from fossil fuels, more lives are damaged by floods, fires, heatwaves and hunger. We cannot keep sacrificing people and communities to protect the profits of oil giants. If we are serious about hope, justice and protecting God’s creation, then we must act now – and that means stopping Rosebank.”

Offshore Energies UK, an energy sector trade body, maintains Rosebank will create thousands of jobs and generate billions for the economy, and improve energy security.