Scottish Liberal Democrat and Isles MSP, Beatrice Wishart has joined voices across the Northern Isles in opposing Russian oil tankers access to ports.
The NS Challenger loaded crude oil at Sullom Voe Terminal in Shetland on the same day Russia invaded Ukraine, while the NS Champion, was due to arrive at Flotta terminal in Orkney this week.
In a letter to all UK ports late Monday afternoon the Secretary of State for Transport, Grant Shapps, confirmed they should not provide access to any ship which they believe is:
Owned, controlled, chartered, or operated by any person connected with Russia
Owned, controlled, chartered, or operated by Designated Persons
Flying the Russian flag
Registered in Russia
Ms Wishart said:
“The war in Ukraine is an invention by Putin, and an attack on a functioning democracy.
“Stopping Russian vessels accessing Shetland ports will help to limit inadvertent funding of the Ukrainian invasion.
“More can be done by governments in the UK and across the world but this is a significant and symbolic step.
“We must do all we can to oppose Putin’s regime and support the Ukrainian people.”
