Jack Middleton Urges Andy Burnham to Abolish Windfall Tax

Jack Middleton, the Scottish National Party MSP for Aberdeen Central, has written to presumptive prime minister Andy Burnham demanding the abolition of the energy profits levy upon Burnham's entry into 10 Downing Street.

Middleton argues that the windfall tax and Westminster's licensing decisions treat Scottish resources as a "cash cow" and are destroying essential supply chains. He claims the current punitive regime threatens Scotland's energy security, national economy, and net-zero goals. These demands come amid reports that the levy may be causing the loss of 1,000 jobs per month in the North Sea.

The MSP's push for tax relief coincides with his support for the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil fields. This position marks a departure from official Scottish Government policy regarding climate compatibility tests, specifically as a consultation proceeds for the Jackdaw field off the coast of Aberdeen.