Question reference: S6W-01608
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 21 July 2021
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Current status: Answered by Michael Matheson on 18 August 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is, regarding the potential impact on Scotland, on the Cambo oil field application, in light of reported International Energy Agency views that no new investments were needed in oil and gas.
Answer
We are wholly committed to becoming a net-zero economy by 2045 and, whilst oil and gas licensing is ultimately a reserved area, any Scottish Government support for oil and gas businesses operating in the North Sea is conditional upon them contributing to a sustainable and inclusive energy transition, and ensuring a secure energy supply.
The oil and gas sector has a positive role to play in our journey to net zero. Indeed, we are clear that the North Sea has a vibrant future in renewable energy, hydrogen, and Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage. Meeting our climate obligations while ensuring a secure energy supply and supporting our highly skilled workforce to transition to the green jobs of the future must all go hand in hand. We will continue to work closely with industry, trade unions, communities and workers to ensure the right skills and training are in place to protect and create jobs as we become a net-zero economy.