Rod Hutchison, Partner and Energy Sector Lead, Aberdein Considine, said: 
“Against a background of declining revenues, lower oil and gas prices, and reduced production, and with extensive evidence presented by industry and business groups showing that continuation of the Energy Profits Levy could have catastrophic consequences for the sector, it is mind-boggling that there has been no softening of the Government’s position. It increasingly feels as though the sector’s concerns are not being heard. 

"The North Sea Future Plan is therefore critical, as it begins to address the needs of operators working in existing oil and gas fields while safeguarding the sector’s vital jobs. We welcome the announcement of the North Sea Jobs Service, which will help sustain a strong pipeline of skilled workers across the energy industry and support the transfer of their expertise into renewable sectors. The industry will be watching closely for evidence that the Plan offers a balanced and supportive framework for the future of the North Sea."