By Salma El-Sakka
Scottish First Minister John Swinney came under fire on Friday after telling MSPs that his government opposes the UK’s plan to ban new oil and gas exploration in the North Sea.
Campaigners accuse First Minister of U-turn
Dr Rosie Hampton, principal policy adviser at anti-fossil fuel group Uplift, described Swinney’s response as “incoherent.” She said new licensing would not improve Scotland’s energy security, noting that North Sea jobs have more than halved in the past decade and that even the oil and gas lobby accepts a ban on new exploration licences. Hampton warned the debate distracts from real energy problems and urged the Scottish Government to deliver a coherent transition plan focused on renewables.
Green and Conservative leaders criticize Swinney
Scottish Green energy spokesman Kristopher Leask likened Swinney’s stance to “pouring petrol on a fire,” arguing the First Minister is betting on a dwindling fossil fuel supply that benefits multinational companies while households see no bill relief. Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay called Swinney “Slippery Swinney” and accused him of being two-faced, noting the SNP still maintains a presumption against new drilling.
Scottish Government contacted for comment
The Scottish Government has been approached for a response to the criticism.
