North East MPs Malcolm Bruce and Sir Robert Smith today met with the Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore MP to discuss the need for improved infrastructure investment and business incentives for the North East.

At a meeting in Westminster issues discussed included the new Green Investment Bank‘s potential contribution to the North East’s energy sector, the East Coast Mainline and other transport infrastructure and visas for foreign skilled workers.

Michael Moore, the Secretary of State for Scotland said:

“I recognise the importance of the North East of Scotland to the UK’s economy. The region punches above its weight and if it is to continue to do so I am aware that local infrastructure issues need to be addressed by the local authorities with the support of the Scottish Government.

“I will continue to speak to my colleagues across Government and to engage with the Scottish Government on how to create the best climate possible for attracting additional business investment and improved infrastructure. Measures such as the national insurance holiday and corporation tax reduction will help new businesses and with the promise of the new Green Investment Bank, there is scope to develop the North East’s vibrant energy sector further.”

Commenting, Mr Bruce said:

‘This was a useful meeting. The Scottish Secretary’s willingness to address these issues and engage with the Scottish Government is encouraging given previous poor relations between the then Labour UK Government and current Scottish Executive.

“We tackled a lot of ground including the importance of the East Coast Mainline, which should be developed between Aberdeen and London and not just South of Edinburgh. We also need to see progress from the Scottish Government on cross rail and other transport infrastructure projects such as the Western Peripheral Route for the good of business and residents alike.

“When it is established in a couple of years the Green Investment Bank has the potential to enhance the local economy through investment opportunities for North East businesses.”

Sir Robert Smith added:

“The Secretary of State was receptive to our concerns and recognises the importance of getting the taxation and licensing regime right for the oil and gas sector. We will continue to make representations on this and were grateful for Mr Moore’s pledge for the Government to continue to monitor the situation.

“We also discussed the issues of visas which I have raised with a number of Government ministers to impress upon them the need to bring key skilled personnel for training and operational purposes on short and long-term contracts.

“We emphasised that if oil and gas companies do not locate in the North East they will not go elsewhere in the UK. Their economic contribution will be lost to this country.”