Exchequer Secretary Hosts Fiscal Forum with Industry Leaders in Aberdeen

15/08/2024
David Whitehouse, CEO, Offshore Energies UK

On Monday Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray MP co-hosted a Fiscal Forum at Offshore Energies UK’s Aberdeen offices with senior industry leaders.  

The impact of changes to further extend and raise the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), or windfall tax, and the potential removal of critical capital allowances for the sector were central to discussions. 

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

Why? Free to subscribe, no paywall, daily business news digest.

These policy changes are rocking the confidence of firms and their investors in the UK’s global competitiveness and its ability to achieve a homegrown energy transition.  

The offshore energies sector is a strategic national asset. It supports 200,000 jobs throughout the UK and contributes £20 billion a year to the Treasury, underpinning national energy security. 

David Whitehouse, CEO Offshore Energies UK commented: “We thank the minister for the frank meeting.

“Discussions between government and industry in the coming weeks before the Autumn Statement will be vital to secure investment in the sector and deliver on the government’s commitment to safeguard jobs.” 

“The minister again heard in no uncertain terms direct from senior business leaders about the impact these proposals are already having for businesses of all sizes and their skilled people right across the whole of the UK.

“Decisions made by this government in the coming weeks could jeopardise thousands of jobs and billions of pounds in economic value. 

“Everyone in the room shared the minister’s ambition for a clean energy future. But this future can only be achieved in partnership with the oil and gas sector and by policies that support jobs, attract investment and anchor business here in the UK.

“There is no simple choice between oil and gas and renewables – we need both to deliver energy security and a homegrown transition.” 

The latest stories

Amplus Energy auctions Aberdeen FC mascot’s shirt for local charity
Programme announced for leading literary festival in Aberdeen
Aberdeen local opens boutique gift shop after years of online success
Charity calls on community to light up the North-east with memories this Christmas