Swinney criticises UK plan to ban new North Sea oil and gas drilling

Scottish First Minister John Swinney said he does not support the UK government's plan to ban new oil and gas exploration in the North Sea, arguing fossil fuels will be needed for years and domestic projects with lower emissions than imports are rational. The UK Energy Independence Bill would remove the North Sea Transition Authority's power to grant new licences, though it would not affect the approved Rosebank field. Swinney said the SNP will seek to remove the ban from the bill, or oppose the legislation despite backing other measures.