Energy Profits Levy Gas Sector 2026-02-25
2026-02-25
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussions about the potential economic impact of the energy profits levy on the Scottish oil and gas industry, which has seen significant job losses.
What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the energy profits levy on the oil and gas sector in Scotland. Oil and gas will play a vital role for decades but there is an urgent need to manage transition properly.
First, I respectfully remind that it was the Conservatives who brought in the energy profits levy in 2022. Oil and gas will be a central part of the UK's energy mix for decades to come but there is also recognition of a transition needing management. The Chancellor confirmed at the Budget we are ending EPL on 31 March 2030.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specifics on addressing current issues or commitments beyond confirming an end date for the levy in 2030.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Thousand jobs lost monthly due to the government's decision regarding EPL. Energy costs are rising for constituents despite imports increasing at higher prices.
A thousand jobs a month are being lost as direct result of Government's decision while importing more at high cost with emissions. Bills up for my constituents. Why not rectify and sort out problem?
Trend in North sea production did not emerge yesterday; mature basin with 75% reduction in production between 1999-2024. UK net importer since 2003, lost more than 70,000 jobs from the basin under Conservatives.
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Assessment & feedback
Shifted focus to historical context rather than addressing current job losses or high bills.
Historical Blame
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Renewable energy opportunities for Scottish businesses, specifically mentioning the Methil yard.
Oil and gas will play a vital role for decades but opportunities exist in renewables. Methil yard ideally placed to deliver infrastructure as well as defence contracts like Programme Euston. Agree?
Hon. Friend is entirely right; visited Navantia yard in Methil just a couple of weeks ago. Since Labour Government stepped in, Navantia announced £12 million investment in the site.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Danish Minister supports domestic energy production over foreign imports, supporting local economy and industry.
Which does Secretary of State agree with—Danish Energy Minister, GB Energy, Scottish Renewables, trade unions or his own colleague?
Introduced EPL was Conservative Government. Clear that EPL will come to an end in 2030. Oil and gas sold into global markets, lost third of North sea workforce under previous government.
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Assessment & feedback
Shifted focus to historical context and blame rather than addressing the current opinion.
Historical Blame
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Supporting domestic industry yields more jobs, income tax revenue, company taxes, and GDP compared to imports.
Who supports Scottish oil and gas industry better than imports? Everyone else understands. Will Secretary State explain to everyone what the Government is playing at?
Aching gap between what Member says and Conservatives did. Under their rule, lost third of North sea workforce; failed to come up with a plan.
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Assessment & feedback
Shifted focus to historical context rather than addressing current policies or support for the industry.
Historical Blame
Response accuracy