John Swinney has drawn criticism after repeatedly dodging questions on whether or not he supports approval of the Rosebank oil field.
During First Minister's Questions, Swinney was quizzed by the Scottish Labour, Scottish Conservatives and Scottish Green leaders about his position on drilling at Rosebank, but failed to provide a straightforward answer.
First under scrutiny from Scottish Tory leader Russell FIndlay, Swinney was pushed for a 'yes or no' answer, but, The Times reports, he failed to provide one, instead claiming to have already answered the question and then insisting it was a decision for the UK government.
Following the exchange, Findlay said: 'John Swinney’s pathetic performance confirmed his lack of backbone when it comes to backing Scotland’s oil and gas sector.'
Swinney told Findlay: 'There is a legal responsibility for every application to be considered and the carbon emissions that come out of the development of an individual site have to be assessed … as to whether it is compatible with our journey to net zero.
'That is the legal obligation and that is the test and the assessment the United Kingdom government has got to go through.'
Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra commented: 'John Swinney was repeatedly asked to make his stance on Rosebank clear – but repeatedly refused to give a straight answer.
'I have been clear that Rosebank is crucial for the Scottish economy, for employment, and for public finances.
'Energy can be the sector that powers growth and secures good work for Scotland for decades to come.
'I have urged John Swinney to publish his oil and gas strategy, so we can work together and stand up for this industry.
'Workers and the wider Scottish public deserve a straight answer from John Swinney on Rosebank, not obfuscation.'
Source: Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
