Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on next steps in relation to the (a) Rosebank and (b) Jackdaw field projects.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

Oil and gas will be an important part of our energy mix for decades to come, but diversifying the North Sea industries is also key to protecting jobs and industries in the long-term. We have worked at pace to consult on updated environmental guidance so we can provide certainty to industry.

Scotland Office and DESNZ Ministers have been in regular contact regarding the issue and have jointly engaged with the industry on next steps.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with Scottish (a) energy companies and (b) supply chain businesses on the potential impact of legal and regulatory uncertainty on future investment in Scotland’s oil and gas sector.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

The Secretary of State and I regularly meet with Scottish energy companies, as well as the relevant business representative organisations, to discuss Scotland's oil and gas sector. We have been clear that North Sea oil and gas will continue to have a role in the UK's energy mix for decades to come.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has had recent discussions with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on bringing forward funding for the GB Energy headquarters in Aberdeen.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

This government’s priority is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea in line with our climate and legal obligations, which drives towards a future of clean energy security, lower bills, and good, skilled jobs.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is in the process of establishing GB Energy, which will drive our clean energy mission. The company will employ staff in its Headquarters in Aberdeen and in additional sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow, making the most of the local skills and expertise available across Scotland.

The North East of Scotland is at the forefront of the UK becoming a clean energy superpower by 2030, the Secretary of State and I are in contact with a range of interested parties across the private sector on GB Energy’s potential to attract investment and create thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Scottish Government on GB Energy’s job creation in Aberdeen.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

This government’s priority is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea in line with our climate and legal obligations, which drives towards a future of clean energy security, lower bills, and good, skilled jobs.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is in the process of establishing GB Energy, which will drive our clean energy mission. The company will employ staff in its Headquarters in Aberdeen and in additional sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow, making the most of the local skills and expertise available across Scotland.

The North East of Scotland is at the forefront of the UK becoming a clean energy superpower by 2030, the Secretary of State and I are in contact with a range of interested parties across the private sector on GB Energy’s potential to attract investment and create thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to ensure that the (a) Jackdaw and (b) Rosebank oil and gas projects can proceed.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

It would not be appropriate to comment on individual projects as this risks prejudicing future regulatory decision-making by the Government and the independent North Sea Transition Authority.

The Government acted quickly to respond to the Finch judgment on scope-3 emissions and consult on updated guidance. The consultation closed on 8 January 2025 and the Government is working to have the guidance in place as soon as possible. Once the updated guidance is in place, the assessment of environmental statements for offshore Oil and Gas projects can be resumed.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he has had with (a) Equinor, (b) Shell, and (c) Ithaca Energy on the regulatory process for reassessing the environmental impact of the (i) Rosebank and (ii) Jackdaw fields.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Details of Ministers’ meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the estimated timeline for the creation of jobs by GB Energy on Scotland’s transition from oil and gas to renewable energy.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

This government’s priority is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea in line with our climate and legal obligations, which drives towards a future of clean energy security, lower bills, and good, skilled jobs.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is in the process of establishing GB Energy, which will drive our clean energy mission. The company will employ staff in its Headquarters in Aberdeen and in additional sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow, making the most of the local skills and expertise available across Scotland.

The North East of Scotland is at the forefront of the UK becoming a clean energy superpower by 2030, the Secretary of State and I are in contact with a range of interested parties across the private sector on GB Energy’s potential to attract investment and create thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has had recent discussions with the business community in Aberdeen on GB Energy’s long-term job creation strategy.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

This government’s priority is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea in line with our climate and legal obligations, which drives towards a future of clean energy security, lower bills, and good, skilled jobs.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is in the process of establishing GB Energy, which will drive our clean energy mission. The company will employ staff in its Headquarters in Aberdeen and in additional sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow, making the most of the local skills and expertise available across Scotland.

The North East of Scotland is at the forefront of the UK becoming a clean energy superpower by 2030, the Secretary of State and I are in contact with a range of interested parties across the private sector on GB Energy’s potential to attract investment and create thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to ensure that the revised environmental assessments for the (a) Rosebank and (b) Jackdaw fields reflect the potential emissions reductions achieved by domestic oil and gas production compared to higher-emission imports.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

It would not be appropriate to comment on individual projects as this risks prejudicing future regulatory decision-making by the Government and the independent North Sea Transition Authority.

The Government acted quickly to respond to the Finch judgment on scope-3 emissions and consult on updated guidance. The consultation closed on 8 January 2025 and the Government is working to have the guidance in place as soon as possible. Once the updated guidance is in place, the assessment of environmental statements for offshore Oil and Gas projects can be resumed.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the judgement in the petitions of Greenpeace Ltd and Uplift [2025] CSOH 10, what discussions he has had with the North Sea Transition Authority to ensure that regulatory requirements following that judgement minimise barriers to investment in UK oil and gas production.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

etails of Ministers’ meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what the value of Scottish exports is to (a) England, (b) Wales and (c) Northern Ireland.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

The latest official statistics, published on 29 January 2025, show that Scotland’s exports to the rest of the UK was worth over £60.5 billion in 2023, and valued at over £47.7 billion during the first three quarters of 2024. The rest of the UK includes England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he has had with the companies involved with the Jackdaw and Rosebank fields proposals on the potential financial risks relating to the time taken for those proposals to be considered; and if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the time taken for those to be considered on levels of future investment in the North Sea.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Details of Ministers' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly on gov.uk.

The Government is still considering the Court’s decision, and the responses to the recent consultation on updated Environmental Impact Assessment guidance, and will engage further with all relevant stakeholders as soon as possible.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the estimated timeline for the creation of jobs by GB Energy on the renewable energy industry in Scotland.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is in the process of establishing GB Energy, which will drive our clean energy mission. The company will employ staff in its Headquarters in Aberdeen and in additional sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow, making the most of the local skills and expertise available across Scotland.

GB Energy will install thousands of clean power projects across the country, crowding in investment for next-generation technologies, and providing vital support to accelerate large-scale projects; in turn, this will create thousands of good jobs, with good wages, across the country.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, when he (a) last met and (b) plans to next meet with the Chief Executive of the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Scotland Office)

Scotland Office Ministers meet with a variety of stakeholders on a regular basis, including from the environmental sector, as required.

The positive reset of relations with the Scottish Government and, as appropriate, its agencies, is a priority for this Government. While the majority of environmental policy is devolved, we work with the Scottish Government on matters that fall within the scope of both of our administrations. We also meet their Ministers regularly at the Inter-Ministerial Group for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs where matters relating to the environment are often discussed.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will make representations to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to ensure that all future energy transmission infrastructure projects in Scotland align with best practices for (a) environmental protection and (b) rural development.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

I engage regularly with my colleague, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on a variety of issues.

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will have discussions with with (a) National Grid and (b) Scottish transmission operators on technological solutions to reduce the need for overhead pylons in Scotland’s rural landscapes.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he has received representations from local authorities in Scotland on the proposed expansion of electricity transmission infrastructure in rural areas.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with local authorities in Scotland across a wide range of issues.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether his Department plans to take steps to ensure that energy transmission projects in Scotland prioritise community engagement.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of providing Government support for mitigating the (a) visual and (b) environmental impact of new energy transmission infrastructure in Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on (a) underground and (b) subsea cabling for energy transmission in rural Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

I engage regularly with my colleague, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on a variety of issues.

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of new electricity transmission infrastructure on the (a) economy and (b) environment of rural Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

My officials work closely with colleagues in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to ensure the needs of Scottish people are represented in policy development.

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and good jobs across the UK.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what discussions he has had with (a) the Scottish Government and (b) energy transmission companies on the impact of proposed electricity pylons on rural communities in Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

I engage regularly with my counterparts in the Scottish Government on a variety of issues.

My Ministerial colleagues and I continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.

The UK Government is committed to delivering our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which will require investment in and expansion of our transmission network. We will work with all interested parties to deliver our plan, which will guarantee energy security, lower bills, and create good jobs across the UK. We will ensure that these changes are made in partnership with communities across Scotland.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of Northern Irish-Scottish connectivity by (a) road, (b) sea, (c) air and (d) rail.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

There is of course currently no direct road or rail travel link between Northern Ireland and Scotland.

Air routes between Northern Ireland and Scotland are a commercial matter, however the UK Government recognises the importance of strong intra-UK travel routes and is committed to working with all parties as appropriate.

The Scottish Government, via Transport Scotland, holds policy responsibility for direct sea travel between Northern Ireland and Scotland. The UK Government respects devolution and is supporting the Scottish Government to deliver, with a record block grant of £47.7bn for 2025/2026 - with a further £3.4bn via the Barnett formula, the largest settlement in real terms since devolution began.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the estimated timeline for the creation of new jobs by GB Energy on workers employed in the North Sea oil and gas industry.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Our priority is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea, which drives towards our clean energy future of energy security, and good, long-term jobs.

Across this Parliament, we expect Great British Energy (GBE) will create 200-300 roles in Aberdeen. In the longer term, through its activities, GBE will support thousands of jobs across the country.

Government-backed training, and the Energy Skills Passport for oil and gas workers, that we delivered in collaboration with industry and Scottish Government, will ensure workers have the right skills to benefit from the jobs GBE creates.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help ensure that GB Energy creates 1,000 jobs in North East Scotland within a reasonable timeframe.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We have said that Great British Energy (GBE) will support thousands of jobs. This includes opportunities at its Aberdeen Headquarters, and through its activities and investments across the country.

As an operationally independent company, GBE will be responsible for its own workforce planning, to ensure the right skills, across the right locations, that enable GBE to deliver maximum impact for the whole of the UK.

The Department continues to work quickly to set GBE up for success and ensure the British people feel the benefits, including new jobs.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate his Department has made of the number of jobs GB Energy will create in the (a) Aberdeen City Council and (b) Aberdeenshire Council areas in the next five years.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Over the next five years, in the early stages of Great British Energy, we expect that the company will employ 200-300 people at its Aberdeen headquarters. Through its activities and investments, GBE will also support thousands of jobs across the country, including in Aberdeen.

Our ambition is to build GBE up to the size and scale of the world’s leading publicly owned energy companies, creating significantly more jobs in the longer term.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the North Sea (a) energy sector and (b) trade unions on the estimated timeline for the creation of jobs by GB Energy.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Details of Ministers' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly on gov.uk.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what criteria his Department will use to measure the success of GB Energy in delivering (a) employment and (b) investment in Scotland.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Delivering jobs and investment is at the heart of Great British Energy’s (GBE) mission to drive clean energy deployment, to create jobs, boost energy independence, to ensure UK taxpayers, billpayers, and communities reap the benefits of clean, secure, homegrown energy.

GBE will be held accountable through regular reporting to the Department. Parliament will also be presented with a copy of the annual report and accounts of Great British Energy which will include details of GBE’s performance in delivering its mission, such as supporting jobs and projects across the country, including Scotland.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to increase the amount of funding provided to GB Energy for increasing employment opportunities in Aberdeen for workers transitioning from the oil and gas sector.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Great British Energy (GBE) will be capitalised with £8.3 billion over the parliament. GBE will begin its work with £125 million to spend in 2025, boosting jobs through its own investments, and by crowding in billions more from the private sector.

Government-backed training, and the Energy Skills Passport for oil and gas workers, that we delivered in collaboration with industry and Scottish Government, will ensure workers have the right skills to benefit from the thousands of jobs GBE creates.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he has had recent discussions with private sector investors on the expansion of GB Energy’s operations in Aberdeen.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.

Published declarations include the purpose of the meeting and the names of any additional external organisations or individuals in attendance.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the future needs of research and development for advanced modular reactors.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department commissioned the Nuclear Innovation and Research Advisory Board (NIRAB) to produce a report on the Research Development & Innovation required for a UK High Temperature Gas Reactor Demonstration in October 2024. This can be found at https://www.nirab.org.uk/our-work/publications and explores both the technical and commercial areas for development to enable an Advanced Modular Reactor in the UK.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions his Department had with industry stakeholders before withdrawing legal support for the Rosebank and Jackdaw projects.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.

Published declarations include the purpose of the meeting and the names of any additional external organisations or individuals in attendance.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how the remit of Great British Nuclear will interact with Great British Energy.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Considering the importance of the two entities’ remits, Great British Nuclear and Great British Energy will remain independent sister companies for the time being to ensure that both organisations are best placed to deliver on the government’s ambitions for energy security and our pathway to net zero. The Government will provide further detail in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how much investment his Department plans to allocate to (a) training centres, (b) training courses and (c) training advisors in the nuclear industry.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government is committed to ensuring that the UK nuclear industry has the necessary skills needed to deliver our nuclear ambitions.

Recognising the need to act now to grow the workforce, the nuclear sector across civil and defence are collaborating to deliver sustained long-term action that will develop a robust nuclear skills base, including through the delivery of the National Nuclear Strategic Plan for Skills.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to engage with the public on the renewable energy industry.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

This government is committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the transition to net zero, supporting people and communities to take action and realise the benefits.

For large-scale renewable electricity developments, we encourage developers to engage with local communities at the earliest opportunity. We will integrate best practice principles of engagement into planning guidance, so that when developers consult with the local community on a proposed project, they do so in a considered, inclusive and responsive manner. We also use the Public Attitudes Tracker to poll the public on their views regarding renewable technologies on a quarterly basis.

We will publish a Net Zero Public Participation Strategy in 2025, which will set out how we will support people to adopt new technologies, as well as opportunities to ensure that public views are considered in policy development.

Government can’t achieve this alone. People also look to businesses, charities, scientists and local communities for advice and support. We have an opportunity to work in partnership to provide information, help people access grants and wider support and ensure that benefits of the net zero transition can be realised by all.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, for what reason his Department withdrew legal support for the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas projects.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In August, in light of the Supreme Court Finch Judgment, the government accepted that the previous Environmental Impact Assessment decisions were unlawful. That decision was made following the taking of legal advice, the contents of which are privileged.

In any event, all parties to Rosebank and Jackdaw claims, including the operators themselves, agreed that the previous decisions were unlawful. The Court has now confirmed this, and made provision for fresh decisions to be made in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how much public investment has been committed to the development of a High Temperature Gas Reactor with the Japanese Government.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Public funding provided by DESNZ is laid out in DESNZ annual reports and accounts.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to engage with the public on the nuclear energy industry.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The department regularly engages with the public on nuclear energy policy matters.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many people have successfully obtained employment using the Energy Skills Passport.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The initial version of the Energy Skills Passport was launched on 22^nd January 2025. As with all policies, DESNZ will be assessing the impact of the project and will use these findings to inform how the project evolves going forward.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many Energy Skills Passports have been issued in each UK region since its introduction.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The initial version of the Energy Skills Passport was launched on 22^nd January 2025 with DESNZ having come onboard as a project partner to accelerate delivery in October 2024. The passport is a tool which can be accessed by workers across the country, but the initial version focuses on oil and gas workers looking to transition into certain roles in offshore wind.

As with all policies, DESNZ will be assessing the impact of the project and will use these findings to inform how the project evolves going forward.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of the National Nuclear Laboratory’s (a) research and development budget and (b) international relationships.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In December 2024 the Government carried out a Strategic Review of the UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-nuclear-laboratory-strategic-review .

The review concluded UKNNL is deeply valued by the sector, with its scientific capability being repeatedly praised as world leading, but there is a requirement for core government funding to ensure UKNNL retains and develops its critical capabilities, and continues specialist research and development. The optimal long-term model, that ensures UKNNL can deliver outcomes for Government and support sector growth, remains under consideration. The Government is currently working through a spending review and decisions will be made in due course.

The review sets out UKNNL’s important role supporting Government as its trusted technical advisor, and it is crucial the laboratory engages internationally to further its research and development. Government is taking forward the review’s recommendation for a more proactive and strategic approach to UKNNL sponsorship, this will include assessing the scope of UKNNL’s role in international relationships.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of withdrawing legal support for the Rosebank and Jackdaw projects on the UK’s energy security and domestic production capacity.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In August, in light of the Supreme Court Finch Judgment, the government accepted that the previous Environmental Impact Assessment decisions were unlawful. That decision was made following the taking of legal advice, the contents of which are privileged.

In any event, all parties to Rosebank and Jackdaw claims, including the operators themselves, agreed that the previous decisions were unlawful. The Court has now confirmed this, and made provision for fresh decisions to be made in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to ensure investor confidence in the UK oil and gas sector following the withdrawal of legal support for the Rosebank and Jackdaw projects.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In August, in light of the Supreme Court Finch Judgment, the government accepted that the previous Environmental Impact Assessment decisions were unlawful. That decision was made following the taking of legal advice, the contents of which are privileged.

In any event, all parties to Rosebank and Jackdaw claims, including the operators themselves, agreed that the previous decisions were unlawful. The Court has now confirmed this, and made provision for fresh decisions to be made in due course.

We have already consulted on revised environmental guidance for development consents to take into account emissions from burning extracted oil and gas to provide stability for industry.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department made of the potential (a) legal and (b) financial impacts of withdrawing legal support for the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas projects before taking that decision.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In August, in light of the Supreme Court Finch Judgment, the government accepted that the previous Environmental Impact Assessment decisions were unlawful. That decision was made following the taking of legal advice, the contents of which are privileged.

In any event, all parties to Rosebank and Jackdaw claims, including the operators themselves, agreed that the previous decisions were unlawful. The Court has now confirmed this, and made provision for fresh decisions to be made in due course.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Defence on the future of military bases in Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

Scotland’s military personnel and our strategic bases, including HMNB Clyde and RAF Lossiemouth, play a crucial role in defending the whole of the UK and our NATO Allies. Scotland hosts 17 regular Armed Forces sites, 7 Royal Navy operated sites and two key RAF bases, representing a significant portion of the UK’s defence estate.

I engage regularly with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on a range of issues and my department has a close, positive relationship with the UK Armed Forces in Scotland. I recently hosted a defence industry roundtable, together with senior members of the Armed Forces, to discuss sector priorities and opportunities, including regional economic development and employment.

Last year, the Prime Minister commissioned a Strategic Defence Review to examine the strategic and operational context for the UK’s defence. As part of that Review, I wrote to the Defence Secretary to highlight Scotland’s important and ongoing role in the UK’s defence capabilities, including the importance of our key military bases. The continued presence of the Armed Forces in Scotland will continue to be important to our overall security and defence.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the contribution of Scottish-based defence industries to the UK’s national security.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

The first duty of the Government is to keep the country secure and our communities safe - a duty all my Cabinet colleagues take very seriously. This is why the Prime Minister launched the Strategic Defence Review to ensure that we are prepared for the challenges of the future, part of which Scottish-based defence industries will play a key role in.

Scottish-based defence industries are crucial to the UK's national security. I regularly engage with the defence, aerospace, and security sectors in Scotland to understand the current landscape of their work and how it contributes to the UK’s broader national security picture. I recently hosted a defence industry roundtable to discuss sector priorities and opportunities, including regional economic development and employment.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Defence on the role of Scottish shipyards in fulfilling future Royal Navy procurement contracts.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

My Department engages regularly with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on a range of issues.

Scottish shipyards play a key role in fulfilling Royal Navy procurement contracts. The commitments set out in the National Shipbuilding Strategy have enabled MoD investment in Scotland’s yards both at Rosyth and on the Clyde.

BAE Systems in Glasgow is constructing eight Type 26 frigates, which will form the Anti-Submarine Warfare backbone of the future Royal Navy surface fleet into the 2060s.

Simultaneously, Babcock in Rosyth is building five Type 31 frigates to replace the Navy’s Type 23 general purpose frigates. This investment ensures Rosyth’s shipbuilding capability and capacity can be optimised to support further opportunities.

In late 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting both BAE Systems in Govan and Babcock’s Rosyth dockyard to witness the progress of these two key UK Government defence programmes. I also recently hosted a defence industry roundtable to discuss sector priorities and opportunities, including regional economic development and employment.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what steps he is taking to support defence-related job creation in Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

I have regular discussions with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on supporting Scotland's defence sector, which makes a vital contribution to the economies of both Scotland and the UK.

In 2022/23, the MoD supported 11,200 direct jobs in Scotland through expenditure with industry, and supported 25,600 civilian and military jobs. Under the new Defence Industrial Strategy, UK-based defence firms, including those in Scotland, will be prioritised for government investment.

I maintain regular dialogue with Scotland's defence, aerospace, and security sectors and recently hosted a defence industry roundtable to discuss sector priorities and opportunities, including regional economic development and employment.

Additionally, as part of Brand Scotland, I have been promoting the Scottish defence industry in Norway and in South-East Asia, where I visited HMS Spey, constructed by BAE Systems on the Clyde.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the impact of the UK defence sector on Scotland’s economy.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

Scotland’s aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors contribute significantly to both the Scottish and UK economies, contributing £3.2 billion in 2023 as well as directly employing 33,500 people and 1,500 apprentices.

Latest figures show that the Ministry of Defence's expenditure with Scottish industry was £2,140 million in 2023/24. Defence spending in Scotland, including military shipbuilding, generates and maintains high-skilled jobs, creates opportunities for inward investment and drives exports, benefiting both Scotland and the wider UK economy.

I recently hosted a defence industry roundtable to discuss sector priorities and opportunities, including regional economic development and employment.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, when he (a) last met with and (b) plans to next meet with the Chief Constable of Police Scotland.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

I meet regularly with Chief Constable Jo Farrell and discuss with her the wide range of issues facing Police Scotland, as well as sharing our mutual priorities and helping to develop understanding of how the UK Government can support the organisation.

One of the Prime Minister’s Missions is to halve serious violent crime and raise confidence in the police and criminal justice system. While Crime and Justice is devolved to Scotland, I share this ambition for Scotland and want to support Police Scotland however possible.

My last meeting with the Chief Constable took place in December 2024 and the next is scheduled for April 2025.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, when he (a) last met with and (b) plans to next meet with the Chief Officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service provides a vital service to the people of Scotland.

The Scottish Government funds and oversees the work of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. The UK Government engages regularly with the Scottish Government on overall matters of security and multi-agency collaboration across Scotland and the UK, including the work of rescue service agencies.

The key responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety of its citizens. The UK Government is committed to working closely with the Scottish Government to ensure that the people of Scotland are supported by the emergency services available to them.

Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, when he (a) last met and b) plans to next meet with the Chief Executive of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Answered by Ian Murray - Secretary of State for Scotland

The Scottish Ambulance Service provides a vital, lifesaving service to the people of Scotland.

Health is a devolved matter, and the Scottish Government funds and oversees the work of the Scottish Ambulance Service. The UK Government engages regularly with the Scottish Government on overall matters of security and multi-agency collaboration across Scotland and the UK, including the work of rescue service agencies.

The UK Government is committed to working closely with the Scottish Government and other agencies to ensure that the safety, health and wellbeing of the people of Scotland is protected and prioritised.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many people have applied for a Skills Passport; and how many of those applications have been approved.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

Some sectors and organisations use skills passports as a way of recognising accredited training relevant to that sector or organisation, for example, the recently developed Hospitality Skills Passport by UKHospitality and deployed as part of the DWP/UKH Destination Hospitality Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAPs) offer. DWP does not issue or collect data on skills passport. However, DWP does offer tailored, flexible advice and support through Jobcentre Plus as part of its core offer.

Jobcentre Work Coaches offer jobseekers a comprehensive menu of help, including referral into skills provision and job search support. Skills are essential to helping customers secure, retain, and progress in work. Work Coaches help customers to access a broad range of provision including Apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, vocational and essential English, maths, digital skills training and ESOL, as well as careers advice and Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs).

DWP Work Coach brokered skills interventions help claimants gain the skills they need to enter and progress in employment, providing the means to enhance career prospects and earnings in line with labour market needs. Creating a highly skilled workforce and contributing to Government’s overall growth ambitions.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, which employment sectors have the highest number of Skills Passport users securing jobs.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

Some sectors and organisations use skills passports as a way of recognising accredited training relevant to that sector or organisation, for example, the recently developed Hospitality Skills Passport by UKHospitality and deployed as part of the DWP/UKH Destination Hospitality Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAPs) offer. DWP does not issue or collect data on skills passport. However, DWP does offer tailored, flexible advice and support through Jobcentre Plus as part of its core offer.

Jobcentre Work Coaches offer jobseekers a comprehensive menu of help, including referral into skills provision and job search support. Skills are essential to helping customers secure, retain, and progress in work. Work Coaches help customers to access a broad range of provision including Apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, vocational and essential English, maths, digital skills training and ESOL, as well as careers advice and Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs).

DWP Work Coach brokered skills interventions help claimants gain the skills they need to enter and progress in employment, providing the means to enhance career prospects and earnings in line with labour market needs. Creating a highly skilled workforce and contributing to Government’s overall growth ambitions.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the Energy Skills Passport will encourage oil and gas workers to find opportunities in the nuclear industry.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The initial version of the digital passport was launched in January 2025. This first phase will help oil and gas workers identify routes into several career roles in the offshore wind sector.

The Department and Scottish government are working with RUK/OEUK industry partners to identify how best to expand the scope and functionality of passport in the future.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions his Department has had with employers on the levels of (a) recognition and (b) uptake of the Energy Skills Passport in the recruitment process.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department is a strategic partner of the Energy Skills Passport project in collaboration with industry stakeholders and the Scottish Government. The initial version of the passport launched on 22^nd January 2025.

The project has wide support amongst the Oil and Gas and Offshore Wind sectors, and DESNZ continues to monitor the impact of the Passport.