Liberal Democrat Energy spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP has criticised the First Minister for ducking key questions about the future of marine energy in Scotland.

Mr McArthur pressed the First Minister to end the uncertainty over the future of the Wave and Tidal Energy Scheme (WATES). Mr McArthur also urged the First Minister to back any bids to protect cable facilities at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC).

Commenting after First Minister’s Questions, Mr McArthur said:

“I had hoped that the very welcome announcement about ROCs last month would be followed by an announcement about the future of the Wave and Tidal Energy Scheme.

“I gave the First Minister the perfect opportunity to end the uncertainty surrounding WATES. The relatively small parcels of research and development funding it provides is critical to the future development of both wave and tidal energy technology.

“I’m disappointed that the First Minister ducked this question and then avoided confirming that the Scottish Government would look favourably on any bid to invest in improvements to facilities at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC). This is a fast moving industry and it is vital that EMEC retains its world leading competitive edge.”