The SNP has vowed to “put pressure” on the UK Government to deliver a Sector Deal for the oil and gas industry.
Energy Minister Jesse Norman claimed the North Sea could do “very well” out of such support, which was unveiled as part of Theresa May’s new industrial strategy earlier this week.
Sector Deals are modelled on City Deals, which have seen both the UK and Scottish Governments agree to invest more than £250million into the north east.
However, the SNP’s Gillian Martin responded that the UK Government must now make good on the Sector Deal “soundbite”.
But this led to Scottish Conservative energy spokesman, Alexander Burnett, hitting back that people in the north-east were growing tired of the nationalists’ “empty rhetoric”.
Aberdeenshire East MSP, Ms Martin, said: “The opportunity for a bespoke Sector Deal for oil and gas is very welcome, albeit long overdue, and follows consistent failures by the UK government to adequately support the industry.
“Theresa May’s government is good at soundbites but not so good at following through with the detail.
“It’s time they start putting their money where their mouth is and support the North Sea – an industry that has poured billions of pounds into Treasury coffers for decades.
“After failing to provide adequate support for oil and gas in consecutive budgets and autumn statements, this latest UK government promise faces public scepticism, but we’ll put pressure on the Tories to deliver a deal that works for the north-east.”
The Sector Deal policy is designed to help specific areas with training and skills, deregulation and developing new technology.
Oil and Gas UK has said the policy could help ensure the industry “survives and continues to underpin the UK’s economic prosperity”.
Mr Burnett countered: “It is a bit rich to hear the SNP talk about backing up soundbites with substance.
“People in the north-east are growing tired of the empty rhetoric about standing up for Scotland while business are facing enormous rates rises and households are charged hundreds of pounds more in council tax.
“Instead of attacking the UK Government, perhaps the SNP should consider working constructively with the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to help the North Sea oil and gas industry.”
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