THE Scottish government has been told it must set out a clear industrial plan to secure a just transition for workers across Scotland.

Labour MSPs urged Holyrood ministers to back calls for a strategy for workers yesterday as Scotland looks to move away from its reliance on oil and gas.

The calls were in response to a motion put forward by the Scottish Tories, who claimed bringing an end to Scotland’s oil and gas industry was counter to the country’s net zero ambitions. 

Labour’s motion, submitted by Colin Smyth MSP, put pressure on the government to significantly step up its efforts to support retention and creation of energy jobs across Scotland, in consultation with trade unions.

The discussion comes after a second Just Transition Commission was announced by the Scottish government on Wednesday. 

Among those appointed to the body were Katie Gallogly-Swan of Global Green New Deal, Richard Hardy of Prospect and Elaine Dougall of Unite — who sits on the STUC’s general council. 

The move was welcomed by unions and campaigners, who warned the recommendations of the first such group had not yet been implemented.