Scotland's First Minister John Swinney has said he does not support the UK government's proposed ban on new North Sea oil and gas exploration. Speaking at First Minister's Questions, Swinney argued there is a rational case for considering new domestic developments if they produce lower carbon emissions than imported oil and gas. The UK's Energy Independence Bill would stop the North Sea Transition Authority from granting new licences, though existing fields could still expand production. Swinney's position marks a shift from the Scottish government's earlier presumption against new drilling, which the Scottish Greens called a shocking U-turn. The bill also includes measures to speed up grid connections and scrap gas standing charges. The SNP now plans to try to remove the licence ban from the legislation, and will oppose the bill if that fails.
