Pressure is mounting on incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham to clarify his position on the future of the North Sea oil and gas industry after the SNP challenged him to end the Energy Profits Levy.
Aberdeen Central MSP Jack Middleton has written to Mr Burnham calling for what he describes as a “straight answer” on the future of the levy, arguing it is damaging jobs, investment and Scotland’s long term energy security.
The intervention comes amid continuing debate over the future of the North Sea, with industry leaders warning of declining investment while governments balance energy security, economic growth and net zero ambitions.
In his letter to Mr Burnham, Mr Middleton wrote:
“Dear Andy Burnham,
“While there is some optimism in the industry and across Scotland that Jackdaw has now finally moved into the consultation period, the fact is the people of Scotland need clarity on your stance on our premier industry.
“The supply chains and investment we need to deliver our renewables future is being destroyed before our very eyes thanks to the Energy Profits Levy and licensing decisions taken by Westminster.
“1000 energy jobs are being lost every single month because of your government’s hated supertax on Scotland’s energy. Meanwhile, reports continue to circulate that you will appoint Ed Miliband to high office, the man responsible for the decision to end drilling in the North Sea.
“These reckless decisions have left the UK increasingly reliant on carbon intensive LNG imports shipped from countries with appalling human rights records. It is completely duplicitous to ruin Scottish jobs only to support the very same oil and gas jobs half way around the globe.
“Perhaps most importantly, like our neighbours in Norway, we have a duty to support our European allies as war rages in Ukraine. It is reprehensible that the UK found itself easing sanctions on Russia rather than exercising our moral duty to ensure our resources are maximised.
“Put simply, our energy security, our economy and our net zero future hangs in the balance because of Westminster’s decision to rely on high carbon imports as well inflicting a punitive tax and licensing regime on Scotland’s energy.
“I am unaware of a single coherent argument in favour of the continuation of this destructive tax and I urge you to provide assurances to the people of Scotland of your position.
“For too long Scotland’s resources have been treated as cash cow to the detriment of our economy and national security, the people of Scotland and these islands deserve to know you will take steps to address that and provide us with a straight answer.
“I look forward to hearing from you.
“Yours sincerely,
“Jack Middleton,
“SNP MSP for Aberdeen Central”
