Scottish Liberal Democrats have pledged to oppose any attempt to introduce fracking across Scotland, warning that proposals linked to Reform UK could have widespread environmental impact.
The party says plans associated with Nigel Farage and Malcolm Offord risk damaging communities and landscapes, with concerns extending beyond the Central Belt to Scotland as a whole.
The issue follows an announcement by Reform UK in August setting out support for fracking elsewhere in the UK, alongside calls for energy companies to prepare for potential development.
Scottish Liberal Democrats point out that powers over fracking in Scotland have been devolved since 2018, meaning any such move would face political and community resistance.
For Highland communities, where landscape, tourism and environment are closely tied to local economies, the prospect of fracking raises particular concern.
The party’s manifesto includes a commitment to oppose any expansion of shale gas extraction, positioning the issue as part of a wider debate on Scotland’s energy future.
Alex Cole-Hamilton set out the party’s stance in strong terms.
“Scotland has made its opposition to fracking crystal clear.
“Local people do not want to see our beautiful countryside torn up for a failed experiment that has caused earthquakes and pollution elsewhere.
“Yet Nigel Farage and presumably Lord Malcolm Offord are determined to ignore the evidence and gamble with the safety of our communities.
“People deserve to know about Reform UK’s plans to drill under homes and countryside right across Scotland.
“Let me be clear, the Scottish Liberal Democrats will fight any attempt to introduce fracking in Scotland.
“We will oppose it in our communities, in the Scottish Parliament and in every corner of this country.
“It would be a step backwards when investment should focus on renewables, home insulation and creating good green jobs.
“The choice is stark.
“A vote for Farage and Reform UK risks tearing up our countryside and dragging Scotland backwards.
“A vote for the Scottish Liberal Democrats on the peach regional ballot is a vote for change with fairness at its heart and to help you with the cost of living, insulating cold homes and using Scottish renewable energy to drive down household bills.”
The debate highlights a clear divide between parties on energy policy, with differing views on how Scotland should balance economic development and environmental protection.
For many in the Highlands, where natural assets are central to identity and livelihoods, the issue carries weight beyond politics alone.
As the election approaches, questions around energy, environment and economic direction are continuing to shape the conversation across Scotland.
