Report criticises lack of action over Grangemouth jobs

A report says the UK and Scottish Governments should have acted sooner to prepare workers in Grangemouth for job losses.

More than 400 people have been made redundant after the refinery closed down.

MPs on the Scottish Affairs Committee says a "lack of action" created an employment gap.

Workers in Grangemouth, who've been directly affected by the refinery closure, are to get targeted support to help them find new jobs.

The Scottish Government says they'll receive help from Forth Valley College to develop skills.

Patricia Ferguson, Chair of the Scottish Affairs Committee, said:  

“Today's report outlines our concerns that jobs from the clean energy industry are simply not being created fast enough, or on the scale needed, to match the mounting job losses from the oil and gas sector.  

“It’s vital that the government moves quickly to plug this employment gap, replace jobs being lost and ensure a smooth energy transition for workers and communities. Until this is tackled, the government should avoid making decisions that would further accelerate oil and gas production’s decline. Our report sets out several ways to do this whilst still preparing for the longer-term clean energy future. 

“Throughout our inquiry we've also paid close attention to the closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery - the energy transition’s canary in the coalmine. Without a doubt, both governments should have moved faster to prepare for job losses and the site’s future, and, must learn lessons from this. 

“Additionally, I want to acknowledge the UK Government’s recent announcement of its clean energy workforce plan. We’ll be reviewing the plan with interest to explore whether it can deliver some of the priorities we outline in our report, to create good, secure jobs and support our economy.”