In this interview on Bylines Scotland radio, Ronnie Barbour discusses the Rosebank oilfield issue with Lauren MacDonald from Uplift and Mark Ruskell, Scottish Green MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife. The main topic is the pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to ignore the Scottish court ruling that overturned the approval of the Rosebank oilfield. Listen to his entire interview or read its summary below.
Lauren MacDonald emphasises the importance of the UK government making the right decision by not approving new fossil fuel projects, as it would contradict climate goals. She highlights the need for a thorough environmental impact assessment and public consultation process before any decision is made. MacDonald argues that the future of energy lies in renewables, which can provide energy security, lower bills, and create jobs.
Rachel Reeves’ desire for growth is discussed, with MacDonald pointing out that growth and climate action are not mutually exclusive. She stresses that most of the oil from Rosebank would be sold overseas, benefiting Norway rather than the UK. MacDonald calls for investment in renewables and support for workers transitioning from the oil and gas sector.
Mark Ruskell discusses the growth of offshore wind and the need for manufacturing capacity in Scotland. He emphasizes the importance of political cooperation between the Scottish and UK governments to achieve renewable energy goals. Ruskell also addresses the need for investment in public transport and demand management to reduce reliance on cars.
Both MacDonald and Ruskell express confidence that the Rosebank project will not proceed without accounting for its climate impact. They believe that the future of energy lies in renewables and that the government must support this transition to create real jobs and achieve climate goals.
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