Keith Brown MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, will address Oil & Gas UK’s annual conference when it gets underway in Aberdeen next week (June 14 and 15).
The Scottish Minister is one of the key speakers at the trade body’s UK Oil and Gas Industry – Open for Business event taking place at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.
Mr Brown will address the opening day’s first plenary session which will also feature Oil & Gas UK’s chief executive, Deirdre Michie, Stephen Halliday, Group President of Wood Mackenzie, Verisk Maplecroft and 3E Company, and Nora Senior, current President of the British Chambers of Commerce and Chair of Scottish Chambers of Commerce.
Cabinet Secretary for the Economy Keith Brown said:
“Along with the industry, the Scottish Government believes that there can still be a positive future for the sector – clearly referenced by Oil and Gas UK’s conference declaring the UKCS “Open for Business”. The North Sea oil & gas industry still has a huge potential - with up to 20 billion barrels of oil still to be recovered.
“However this remains a difficult time for the industry and the workforce, important steps are underway to adapt to the current low oil price environment. The Scottish Government recognises the need for collaborative action and is engaging closely with the industry, trade unions and regulator to overcome the current challenges and secure a long term future for the sector.
“The Energy Jobs Taskforce is also working with industry partners to help the supply chain react to the current challenges in the industry - as this is crucial to ensuring the sector comes through the challenges it faces.
“Increasing exploration and investment in the sector is critical. The Scottish Government is focused on creating a competitive and supportive business environment and promoting innovation throughout the supply chain - however, the UK Government retains control of the key taxation levers affecting the sector, and must take the action needed to protect jobs and, hence, we will seek to engage constructively with them, to that end.”
Deirdre Michie added: “We are delighted that Mr Brown is addressing our conference. We welcome the support of the Cabinet Secretary and the Scottish Government for our industry as we continue to manage our way through this downturn so that we can emerge in a more robust, resilient and competitive shape.”
For more information and to book a place at the UK Oil and Gas Industry – Open For Business see here.