Grangemouth Oil Refinery Closure: Job Losses

Earl Russell Excerpts

Thursday 3rd July 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Wilson of Sedgefield (Lab)]

I thank the noble Lord for his question. We welcome Unite’s continued engagement in the long-term clean energy future of the site, and long may that involvement continue. The Prime Minister is committed to creating many more green jobs. The Government share Unite’s ambition to secure a viable, long-term future for the site, which is why the National Wealth Fund stands ready to invest £200 million once an investable proposition has been identified, which could include sustainable aviation fuel.

[Earl Russell (LD)]

My Lords, on these Benches, we believe in a just transition, and I know that the Government do too, but, more broadly, what action are this Government taking to be proactive and not reactive in this space? The truth is that a blizzard of ideas, policies and proposals, just coming too late, do not work to save the jobs. It is important that we help those people to make sure that they have a living and that we do not sacrifice workers. Can I ask the Government to do more in assessing risk?

[Lord Wilson of Sedgefield (Lab)]

I welcome that question and agree with the noble Earl. If we look at the oil refinery industry, we see that refineries that are doing well are investing in the future; for example, looking at sustainable fuels. The Prax refinery unfortunately went into insolvency at the beginning of the week, but the refinery across the road, Phillips 66, is doing really well, because it is doing exactly what we want to see, which is investment in sustainable fuels for the future.