Businesses from Northeast Scotland, Falkirk, and Bo’ness express concerns over Labour’s policy to halt new oil and gas licences, calling for a detailed plan for job replacement and energy security.
Nearly 200 businesses have signed a joint letter through the union Unite protesting Labour’s policy of refusing new oil and gas licences in the North Sea. The campaign, named “no ban without a plan,” will unveil a giant version of the letter in Aberdeen on Thursday.
Labour’s policy allows existing licences to operate but halts new ones. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Shadow Energy Secretary Ed Miliband have refuted claims that the policy would jeopardize North Sea jobs, emphasizing Labour’s commitment to the sector.
Local businesses from Northeast Scotland, Falkirk, and Bo’ness signed the letter stating the importance of the oil and gas industry for employment and local economies. Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham criticized Labour’s lack of a concrete plan for job replacement and energy security, suggesting the policy should not proceed without detailed alternatives.
Labour’s manifesto includes a “green prosperity plan” aimed at investing in climate transitions and creating green jobs. Shadow Scottish Secretary Ian Murray emphasized Labour’s comprehensive plan to rejuvenate the North Sea industry and secure its future as part of the UK’s clean energy strategy.
