Scottish First Minister Faces Pressure Over Energy Strategy as Tensions Rise within SNP

Scottish Labour has called on First Minister John Swinney to clarify his stance on oil and gas exploration, following uncertainty surrounding the Scottish Government’s energy strategy.

The Scottish Government’s draft energy strategy includes a presumption against new oil and gas licences, which would restrict new exploration in the North Sea unless specific conditions are met. However, the First Minister has yet to commit to the policy’s inclusion in the final strategy document.

Swinney acknowledged the need to transition to net zero but stressed the importance of managing this transition in a way that supports the oil and gas sector. He stated: “We’ve got to make the transition to net zero, but what I want to ensure is that we manage that transition in a way that supports the oil and gas sector and is compatible with our long-term vision.”

While Swinney’s comments suggested a balancing act, SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn indicated earlier in the day that the presumption against new licences could be revised or shelved altogether.

Flynn told BBC Radio Scotland: “We need to recognise, irrespective of where you are, the importance of the oil and gas sector to Scotland’s economy. Those 100,000 individuals working in the sector are crucial to our journey to net zero.”

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie criticised the lack of clarity, accusing the SNP of sending mixed messages. She said: “The SNP is saying one thing to the North East and another to the rest of Scotland. This issue is too important to be used as an internal political tool. We need to know whether John Swinney backs the current position of the government or whether he’s been overruled by Westminster’s Stephen Flynn.”

While Labour has faced challenges in the North East over their oil and gas stance, with Sir Keir Starmer previously pledging to end new exploration, Flynn responded to the criticism, accusing Labour of undermining Scotland’s economic potential.

He added: “Labour’s plans will deter up to £30 billion of investment in Scotland. Rather than standing up to Keir Starmer, they deflect to the SNP. A vote for the SNP is a vote to protect Scottish jobs and energy investment.”

Flynn also reaffirmed the SNP’s commitment to reinvesting Scotland’s energy wealth locally, rather than allowing it to be spent on projects in England, as suggested by Labour’s energy policies.