The SNP last night demanded the new energy secretary put his money where his mouth is by taking steps to support the oil and gas industry.
Greg Clark described the sector as a “huge priority” for the UK Government when he visited Aberdeen for the first time in his new role on Tuesday.
The Tory frontbencher, who was appointed in Theresa May’s reshuffle, pledged to put the North Sea at the heart of the UK’s industrial strategy.
He also ruled out intervening in the ongoing industrial dispute and confirmed he would hand full legislative powers to the oil and gas watchdog within weeks.
Stewart Stevenson, the SNP MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, said it was vital for Mr Clark to make good on his word and deliver support for the sector.
He added: “The UK Government has failed miserably to support the North-east in these challenging times.
“Action is long overdue from a government that happily reaps the benefits from the industry when times are good, but quickly deserts it when times are tough.
“The Tory government needs to show the same level of commitment to the north-east as the Scottish Government has – and take action to protect the industry, such as reducing fiscal barriers to
exploration and improving access to decommissioning tax relief.”
Mr Stevenson accused Mr Clark’s predecessors of failing “miserably” in relation to the oil and gas industry.
He added: “He must put his money where his mouth is and ensure he doesn’t become yet another member of the Tory government with a dreadful record in protecting jobs in the North Sea.”
Mr Clark is secretary of state for the newly-formed Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
He defended his government’s record of support, pointing to tax changes and the Aberdeen City and Region Deal.
