Almost four out of every ten oil and gas companies are starting to prepare for an independent Scotland, according to a new survey of the sector.
The study by Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce also confirmed the revival of the UK North Sea industry with activity, investment and confidence in the sector continuing to rise.
The report asked firms if next year’s independence referendum would be a factor in future planning and investment proposals.
Around 38% of companies said that they had started planning for changes, which could include modifications to the regulatory and fiscal environment.
This figure was slightly up on 36% a year ago.
Key findings from the 18th survey, which was published today, included 75% of operators reporting working at or above optimum levels compared to last year, with more than three-quarters of contractors report working at or above optimum level.
Staff shortages were widely reported by both operators and contractors, with losses of employees to other oil and gas companies reported by 40% of operators and 52% of contractors.