Finance Secretary has called for an immediate
end to the Energy Profits Levy (EPL).
Following the Chancellor's announcement in the UK Spring
Forecasts that she will meet with the offshore energy industry
over the coming days, Ms Robison said it is vital that there is
no delay in ending the EPL.
Ms Robison said:
“We are clear in our support for Scotland's valued oil and gas
sector. It is very disappointing that the Chancellor does not
appear to have heeded repeated warnings from across the energy
industry on the urgent need to remove the tax grab on Scotland's
energy.
“When she meets North Sea industry leaders she must announce an
end to this tax on Scotland's energy to prevent further loss of
jobs and investment. In order to provide the necessary certainty
and stability, an immediate end date needs to be legislated on at
the earliest possible opportunity.
“Amid continued global instability, many households and
businesses will be looking for reassurance that their costs won't
increase further. Fuel duty is a key concern and the Chancellor
has failed to provide that reassurance. This emphasises the need
to urgently engage in meaningful four-nations discussions on
motoring taxation, as we have repeatedly called for.
“Families will also be worried about increased energy bills given
the ongoing international situation, which risks worsening a
situation in which people are already struggling to pay their
bills. Again, it is disappointing that the Chancellor appeared to
have no answers for those households.”
