**MYTH:** UK manufacturers are unanimously calling for Ed Miliband to approve North Sea drilling to prevent industrial collapse. **FACT:** While some UK manufacturing representatives have indeed called for increased North Sea oil and gas development citing energy cost concerns, this represents one perspective in a complex energy policy debate rather than a universal manufacturing sector position. The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit reports that many UK manufacturers are actually accelerating investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency to reduce long-term costs and supply chain risks. According to Make UK's own surveys, while energy costs remain a significant concern for manufacturers, the sector is increasingly divided between those seeking short-term fossil fuel solutions and those prioritizing sustainable energy transitions for competitive advantage. The characterization of potential "de-industrialisation" reflects legitimate concerns about energy-intensive industries' competitiveness, but overlooks evidence that countries with higher renewable energy adoption, such as Denmark and Germany, have maintained strong manufacturing sectors. The UK's Committee on Climate Change has noted that industrial decarbonisation, supported by appropriate government policy, can enhance rather than threaten manufacturing competitiveness. Energy security concerns are valid, but the framing suggests a false choice between immediate North Sea expansion and industrial decline, when multiple energy strategies exist to address both cost and security challenges. **Sources:** Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, Make UK industry surveys, UK Committee on Climate Change reports