The UK Government has been criticised after blocking a £1.5 billion investment in the Highlands, with concerns raised over the impact on jobs and Scotland’s energy sector.

The proposed project at Ardersier would have created around 1,500 jobs and supported the development of renewable energy infrastructure.

The decision was taken on national security grounds, prompting questions from local MP Graham Leadbitter over the reasoning behind the move.

Graham Leadbitter, MP for Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey, said:

“People will rightly be asking why the UK government felt so strongly about ‘national security’ when it came to a game-changing investment into our renewables industry but not when it came to building a Chinese mega embassy in the heart of London.

“They now have serious questions to answer over why exactly the building of wind turbines would’ve posed such a threat to national security that they’ve blocked a £1.5 billion investment in my constituency.

“Rather than supporting Scotland’s world-leading energy industry the Labour government have instead continued to perform a Thatcher tribute act in the dismantling of our energy sector.

“In years to come when Westminster starts buying Chinese turbines anyway they’ll be left with egg on their faces, but government minister’s embarrassment will pale in comparison to the damage done to the industry by this nonsensical move.

“Labour’s time in office has seen mass job losses in Scotland’s energy sector, particularly here in the north and north east.

“This investment would’ve helped us to retain jobs and skills but what is now far more likely is those jobs will go elsewhere.

“Scotland has enormous energy wealth and has, over decades, built up the expertise and experience needed to pursue a Just Transition to renewables that protects jobs and strengthens our economy.

“But all of that is being very quickly undermined by an irresponsible Westminster system that doesn’t care a jot about Scotland.

“It’s no wonder more and more people are realising that only with independence can we support our energy sector, protect jobs, secure investment, and use our resources to benefit the people of Scotland by bringing down bills.”

The decision has raised wider concerns about investor confidence and the future direction of Scotland’s renewable energy industry.

With global competition for large scale energy projects increasing, questions are being asked about how Scotland can secure long term investment and protect jobs in the sector.