Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra has urged the Government to publish its much-delayed energy strategy.
A draft version of the document was published during Nicola Sturgeon’s tenure as first minister in early 2023 and contained a controversial presumption against new oil and gas developments – a position the administration of John Swinney has seemingly distanced itself from.
The finalised document has been delayed repeatedly and was not published ahead of May’s election as was promised, with Government sources claiming it was due to the volatile nature of the energy industry.
Speaking on Monday, Mr Marra said he would be willing to work with the Government, claiming “ideology has come before Scottish workers” in the past.
I am, as ever, willing to work with the Scottish Government on this. A starting point should be John Swinney publishing the long-delayed energy strategy, including a plan for oil and gas
“The North Sea is vital to industrialisation in Scotland and to our energy and economic security,” the Labour leader said.
“Scottish Labour won a vote in parliament last week achieving support for that view.
“The energy industry should be the sector that powers Scotland’s economic growth for decades to come.
“But for too long ideology has come before Scottish workers – whether it’s wind farms or oil fields.
“We must back renewables, we must back our oil and gas workers, and we must look at a new generation of nuclear.
“I am, as ever, willing to work with the Scottish Government on this.
“A starting point should be John Swinney publishing the long-delayed energy strategy, including a plan for oil and gas.
“Labour will engage with it on good faith based on what is best for Scottish workers.”
Energy Minister Stephen Gethins said: “We need to see a parallel track approach to the energy transition, in which North Sea oil and gas production is managed alongside the increasing deployment of renewables, so we can maximise the economic benefits for people and businesses.
“Our refreshed energy strategy will set out our priorities and provide long-term certainty to communities, industry and others. That is why it is important it follows and takes into account the forthcoming Strategic Spatial Energy Plan from the UK Government.”