SNP: Warm words can’t disguise Miliband’s failures on energy |

Wednesday 25th July 2012 | 17:22

SNP: Warm words can’t disguise Miliband’s failures on energy

SNP Press Release

Responding to remarks made by Labour leader Ed Miliband attacking the UK Government’s policy on renewables and North Sea Oil, SNP MSP Maureen Watt, said:

“No-one will be fooled by Mr Miliband’s soft soap – history shows his lack of actions on these very issues while he was Energy Minister.

“His lasting legacy on energy policy is one of enthusiasm for nuclear power and in opposition he failed to oppose the Tory-led government’s increase in taxation on the North Sea.

“Even when he was Energy Minister it took him a whole year before he got round to visiting Aberdeen, Europe’s energy capital.

“The reality of Mr Miliband’s time as Energy Minister simply demonstrates why decisions are best taken in Scotland, rather than by inconsistent Westminster politicians.

“His comments are yet another example of how no-one can trust a word the Labour party say – whether it is on Scotland’s energy potential or Scotland’s constitutional and economic future.

“He must also explain why he believes Scotland is better together with a Westminster government that he says “isn’t providing the certainty for investors” for the North Sea?

“It was the SNP which stood up against the job-threatening tax grab which the Tories and LibDems imposed, while Labour sat on their hands and allowed it to happen.

“For years the anti-independence parties have misled over the true potential of Scotland’s oil and gas resources.

“If Mr Miliband really wants a “a proper plan” for North Sea Oil, then he must realise that the best way to ensure a stable and prosperous future for the industry is with decisions taken by a Scottish Parliament, 100 per cent directly elected by the people of Scotland.”