More than half of Scotland’s MSPs have thrown their support behind a campaign to protect North Sea oil and gas jobs, according to a report by The Press and Journal.
The campaign, led by Unite union, calls for a clear plan from the UK Government to safeguard employment in the energy sector.
Out of 129 MSPs, 65 have endorsed Unite’s “No Ban Without a Plan” campaign, including representatives from the Conservatives, SNP, Labour, and Alba parties.
Notably, seven Labour MSPs have broken ranks with their party’s Westminster leadership by backing the campaign.
The Labour rebels include Richard Leonard, Katy Clark, Colin Smyth, Paul Sweeney, Monica Lennon, Carol Mochan, and Mercedes Villalba.
This move comes as Labour’s UK leadership faces criticism for its stance on new oil and gas licences.
Speaking to the Press and Journal, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated: “The majority of MSPs are clear that Labour needs to reverse its irresponsible policy banning all new oil and gas licenses irrespective of the impact on jobs.”
She described the policy as “madness” without a viable plan for equivalent jobs and energy security assurances.
The campaign has also gained support from nearly half of the SNP group, including cabinet secretary Angus Robertson.
However, the Green and Liberal Democrat parties have not backed the campaign, drawing criticism from Unite.
The UK Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero responded by emphasising their commitment to a “fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea” in line with climate obligations.
They pledged to work with the sector to protect current and future generations of jobs.
This development highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the future of North Sea oil and gas, balancing economic concerns with environmental commitments