Combined with existing taxes, North Sea oil and gas producers now face an effective tax rate of 78 per cent. The announcement prompted criticism from opposition politicians, who argued the tax regime has made investment in the UK North Sea less attractive. The previous Labour administration under Sir Keir Starmer had faced criticism over restrictions on new North Sea developments. BP employs around 1,100 people directly in its North Sea operations and approximately 14,000 people across the UK. The company said its global headquarters would remain in Britain even if the North Sea business is sold.