Prime Minister emphasises Conservative support for oil and gas during Scotland visit
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declared that only the Conservative Party can be “trusted” to safeguard crucial jobs in the North Sea oil and gas sector, highlighting the Government’s commitment to this industry as a pathway to a “brighter, greener future.” During his visit to north east Scotland, Sunak met with leaders in the energy sector and related supply chains to reinforce his party’s backing for the 200,000 UK jobs tied to the industry, nearly half of which are based in Scotland.
Ahead of his visit, Sunak stated, “Scotland is home to remarkable talent and innovation that drives our United Kingdom’s success. My Government is resolute in supporting the high-quality jobs that depend on our North Sea oil, gas, and energy sector.”
His remarks contrasted Conservative support for oil and gas with the stance of Labour and the SNP, who emphasise a transition to renewable energy sources. Sunak reiterated the Tories’ approach to reaching net zero through pragmatic, long-term planning that protects jobs and reduces burdens on Scottish families.
Labour’s shadow Scottish secretary, Ian Murray, criticised Sunak’s visit as an attempt to shore up a fractured party, arguing that Scots are ready to remove the Conservatives from power due to economic mismanagement and political turmoil. Murray pledged that a Labour-led government would impose a “proper windfall tax” on energy firms while creating 50,000 green energy jobs in Scotland.
Meanwhile, SNP trade spokesperson Richard Thomson called on Sunak to address the 75% tax on Scotch whisky, emphasising the economic significance of the industry, which supports over 40,000 jobs. David Whitehouse of Offshore Energies UK also urged for investment in a homegrown energy transition, combining traditional and renewable energy sources to safeguard jobs and economic stability.
