Scottish industry minister Keith Brown has secured ‘an assurance’ from the UK Government that the strategic importance of the Green Investment Bank to Scotland is being ‘fully considered’ as part of discussions around its privatisation.
He reaffirmed the Scottish Government’s determination to retain the Bank’s Edinburgh headquarters and the jobs of the 55 highly-skilled people employed there.
Brown has repeatedly urged Nick Hurd, the UK Minister for Climate Change and Industry to ensure that any negotiations with a preferred bidder’ prioritise Scotland’s interests.’
He has now written again to Hurd, calling for clarity on the sale of the bank, following reports that the current deal to sell the Green Investment Bank to a sole bidder is under threat.
Brown said: “The UK Government continues to proceed with the sale of the Green Investment Bank, offering the Scottish Government little in the way of consultation or clarity.
“Although I welcome assurances that Scotland’s interests are being considered in this process, recent media reports highlight the need for greater transparency from the UK Government.
“Foremost among my concerns is the importance of retaining the Bank’s Edinburgh Headquarters and the 55 highly skilled jobs it supports.
“The lack of transparency around the sale creates significant concern and uncertainty for staff, and the sector more widely.”
See also 24 Dec 2016 :
Ex Scottish Labour MP calls for ‘strong campaign’ over Green Investment Bank privatisation
http://www.scottishenergynews.com/scot-govt-finally-raises-political-alarm-as-edinburgh-faces-loss-of-50-green-investment-bank-jobs-on-privatisation/
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