Scottish Labour has called on First Minister John Swinney to publish the Government's energy strategy after a wait of more than 1,380 days. Daniel Johnson, the party's energy spokesman, described the delay as "ludicrous" and demanded the strategy be released when Parliament returns from recess next week.
Delays and shifting policy
The draft strategy was first published in January 2023, with the final version originally expected in the summer of 2024. However, reports suggest it could now take until late 2027, a timeline Johnson condemned.
The Scottish Government's stance on energy has changed in recent years, moving from Nicola Sturgeon's presumption against new oil and gas to a softer approach under Mr Swinney. Despite this shift, the Government has not yet confirmed its move away from opposing oil and gas by publishing a finalised strategy.
Calls for urgent action
Mr Swinney has declined to give a timeline for the strategy, telling the Press Association on Wednesday it will be published "in due course". Mr Johnson said the Government must act urgently.
He said: "It is ludicrous that Scotland could be waiting until late 2027 for an energy strategy that was first drafted in January 2023.
"Workers and businesses need certainty about the future of oil and gas, renewables and nuclear.
"They cannot afford another year of drift, making it harder for companies to plan ahead and invest in Scotland's energy future, putting future projects and skilled jobs at risk.
"John Swinney must stop kicking the can down the road.
"He must publish the strategy next week when Parliament returns. Scotland's energy workforce deserves answers, not another delay."
Next steps
The Scottish Government has been approached for comment.
