SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon at the party's 2019 conference
Why the SNP is wrong about Cambo
Scotland’s largest party stands accused of failing to see the big picture on the UK oil and gas industry’s contribution to the energy transition
An August letter from Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and first minister of Scotland, to UK prime minister Boris Johnson urging his Westminster administration to reassess UK continental shelf (UKCS) projects that have production licences but have yet to commence development has sent a chill through a UK oil and gas industry largely centred on her northern fiefdom. But influential voices are emerging to make the case as to why she is mistaken. Sturgeon’s U-turn on projects such as the West of Shetland Cambo field is largely naked politicking. The SNP previously emphasised the future role of ‘Scotland’s oil’ in bolstering the economy of a post-independence state, a
Also in this section
20 January 2026
The ripple effects of US refiners switching to Venezuela grades will be felt from Canada to China and everywhere in between
20 January 2026
As the global energy system undergoes its most profound transformation in a century, the need for credible leadership, practical solutions and inclusive dialogue has never been greater. In 2026, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will stand at the centre of this conversation as host of the 25th WPC Energy Congress in Riyadh.
20 January 2026
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the host of the 25th WPC Energy Congress on 26-30 April 2026. The Ministry of Energy spoke with Petroleum Economist about the key messages and opportunities for the global energy community.
19 January 2026
Newfound optimism is emerging that a dormant exploration frontier could become a strategic energy play and—whisper it quietly—Europe’s next offshore opportunity
