Angus Robertson

Scottish National Party | Moray

Robertson attacks UK government's lack of energy

During Scottish Questions this morning in the House of Commons, SNP MP Angus Robertson blasted the Government for its half hearted attempt to amend the proposed Energy chapter of the draft European Constitution which will have a detrimental impact on Scotland.

Questioning the Secretary of State for Scotland, the Moray MP demanded to know why the amendment tabled by the UK Government does not address issues vital to the future of the North Sea oil and gas industry such as sovereignty over treaty negotiations, boundaries or associated fiscal matters.

Speaking following the question session, Mr Robertson said:

"Alistair Darling was all at sea this morning on the future of the oil industry. He didn't even appear to know of the text of the UK's amendments to the ongoing EU Inter Governmental Conference, and that's simply not good enough for the Minister who should be fighting Scotland's corner in Cabinet.

"The Energy Chapter in the proposed EU Constitution must be amended to protect Scotland's interests, but this Government is failing in its commitment to the industry.

"Foreign Secretary Jack Straw has confirmed that if the Constitution is un-amended it will give the EU extended powers over the oil and gas industries, and this would be a blow to one of the country's key employers and wealth generators.

"Sadly the UK amendment released in the House of Commons today shows that Whitehall ministers have failed to include key assurances on treaty negotiating rights, boundary issues and fiscal matters which is utterly unacceptable.

"The Government must get on top of this issue immediately if its to protect the best interests of the industry and the thousands of jobs that go with it.

"Time is running out with the IGC scheduled to complete its work by the end of the year. The government has not made energy a red line issue and I fear they are letting the industry and Scotland down."