Scottish Lib Dems respond to Jackdaw approval

Responding to the UK Government's decision to approve Jackdaw, Scottish Liberal Democrats climate, environment and energy spokesperson Sanne Dijkstra-Downie MSP commented:

"In an uncertain world, we need energy security and to reduce our country's exposure to global shocks. Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and Trump’s reckless war with Iran has shown how dangerous and expensive it is to depend on imported fossil fuels. Jackdaw needs to be viewed in this context.

"However, the fact that this field is being taken forward during a climate crisis is proof that both of Scotland's governments haven't moved anywhere near fast enough when it comes to reducing demand. It's little wonder that things have moved at a snail's pace when the Scottish Government's Energy Strategy and Heat in Buildings Bill have both been delayed by years.

"The work from Jackdaw will be a relief for the talented workers who have seen opportunities vanish and promises of a just transition fall short. Net Zero and a greener future for our country depends on our retaining their homegrown skills and engineering supply chains.

"Jackdaw only offers limited respite. It's time to drive down demand for gas and wean ourselves off fossil fuels. It's why Scottish Liberal Democrats are calling for the rapid expansion of climate-friendly heating systems like heat pumps, an emergency insulation programme that makes homes warmer and cheaper to heat, and for people to get the full benefits of renewable energy. Today's decision on Jackdaw must mark the tipping point for this transformation - not a fresh excuse to put it off."