Written questions by Bowie.

What steps his Department is taking to help support Scotland’s oil and gas industry, in the context of the Court of Session judgement of 30 January 2025 in relation to the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas fields.

The recent decision made in the Court of Session regarding the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas fields is an independent matter for the courts.The Government has consulted on revised guidance for Environmental Impact Assessments to take account of scope 3 emissions from burning the extracted oil and gas, in anticipation of the outcome of this caseWe will respond to this consultation in due course and developers will be able to apply for consents under this revised regime. We continue to engage regularly with all parts of the energy sector in Scotland.Our priority is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition in the North Sea in line with our climate and legal obligations, which drives towards our clean energy future of energy security, lower bills, and good, long-term jobs.

What assessment he has made of the impact of potential delays to the (a) Rosebank and (b) Jackdaw oil and gas projects on the UK’s (i) future energy needs and (ii) ability to regulate energy market pricing.

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.

If he will take steps to ensure that the (a) Jackdaw and (b) Rosebank oil and gas projects can proceed.

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.

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.

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

If he will take steps to accelerate the environmental reassessment process required for the (a) Rosebank and (b) Jackdaw oil and gas fields.

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.

What assessment his Department has made of the potential long-term impact of repeated legal challenges to approved oil and gas sector sector projects on that sector; and what steps he is taking to help provide greater regulatory certainty for investors.

The Department has not carried out any sector-specific assessment of this type. However, we recognise the importance of striking the right balance between ensuring ongoing access to justice and protections against genuine issues of propriety. That is why we have worked at speed to consult on updated environmental guidance so we can resume assessments as quickly as possible. We will also publish a consultation on our commitment not to issue new licences to explore new fields in due course. Our aim is a fair, orderly and prosperous transition that provides certainty to industry.

What steps the Government is taking to ensure the buy-out of Harland and Wolff by Navantia UK aligns with (a) defence and (b) clean energy strategies.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

How much Industrial Strategy funding will be allocated to support the continued development of the Harland & Wolff shipyards in Scotland.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps his Department plans to take to support the long-term sustainability of Harland & Wolff’s shipyards in Scotland, in the context of the Navantia UK buy-out.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps the Government is taking to monitor the effectiveness of the Navantia UK buy-out in safeguarding skilled jobs at Harland & Wolff’s Scottish shipyards.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What support his Department is providing to assist Navantia UK in managing the transition process for Harland & Wolff’s Scottish sites.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps he is taking to ensure that Harland & Wolff’s Scottish sites can compete for future defence contracts following the Navantia UK buy-out.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What role the Government plans to play in supporting the integration of Harland & Wolff’s Scottish sites into Navantia UK’s broader industrial strategy.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps he is taking to ensure that the job guarantees for workers at Harland & Wolff’s Scottish sites are upheld after the buy-out by Navantia UK.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps his Department plans to take to engage with local communities in Methil and the Western Isles to ensure that the benefits of the Navantia UK buy-out are fully realised.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What assessment his Department has made of the impact of the Navantia UK buy-out on the local economies of Methil and the Western Isles.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps he plans to take to support the skills development of workers at Harland & Wolff’s Scottish sites, in the context of the Navantia UK buy-out.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

How much the Government has contributed financially to the Navantia UK buy-out of Harland and Wolff; and what estimate he has made of the potential benefit to the Scottish workforce.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help ensure the job security of the 350 workers at Harland & Wolff’s sites in (a) Methil and (b) Arnish.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.

What discussions he has had with Navantia UK on future investment in Harland & Wolff shipyards in Scotland.

The UK Government acted decisively, helping to secure the commercial deal by Navantia UK. This saved all of Harland and Wolff shipyards, protecting 1000 jobs across the country.This industry-led deal will help ensure that the MOD's Fleet Solid Support contract is successfully delivered. Navantia UK has committed to future investment in Harland andWolff, strengthening the UK's industrial base and safeguarding essential sovereign shipbuilding capacity for future naval work and energy contracts.The Industrial Strategy, alongside Sector Plans for the growth-driving sectors, will be published in Spring 2025, aligned with the multi-year Spending Review.The Scotland Office will continue to work with DBT and Navantia UK to support a smooth transition process and will engage with local communities where appropriate to maximise the benefits for all.