SNP ends opposition to new North Sea drilling, pressuring Swinney to back licences
SNP delegates have voted to end the party’s presumption against new North Sea drilling, putting First Minister John Swinney under pressure to support new licences in the Scottish Government’s forthcoming energy strategy. The change matters because it reverses a policy associated with Nicola Sturgeon and follows concerns among party figures that it weakened the SNP’s support in oil and gas communities.
The conference motion argued that using domestic production, subject to climate compatibility assessments, would protect Scottish jobs, reduce reliance on imported fuels and help fund the transition to net zero. Energy Minister Stephen Gethins backed the motion and said he hoped it would be reflected in government policy, while Swinney has not said whether he supports new licences or the Rosebank and Jackdaw developments. Delegates rejected a separate amendment calling for a higher windfall tax on oil and gas profits, and the debate exposed divisions within the party.
- SNP delegates voted to scrap the presumption against new drilling.
- Swinney faces pressure to reflect the vote in government policy.
- The conference debate revealed divisions over North Sea oil and gas.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that allowing carefully assessed new North Sea licences could sustain skilled jobs and local economies while reducing reliance on imported fuels. They also see domestic production as a source of revenue and energy security during the transition to net zero, provided projects meet climate compatibility tests.
The case against
Opponents argue that approving new fields risks locking in fossil fuel production and emissions when climate goals require a rapid shift to cleaner energy. They contend that new licences may do little to lower bills or guarantee energy security, and that investment and public support should instead accelerate renewables and a just transition for oil and gas workers.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “John Swinney under pressure to back new North Sea drilling after SNP votes to scrap Sturgeon policy”.