Reality seem finally to be dawning on the Scottish Conservative Party, whose deputy leader Murdo Fraser has suddenly started making positive noises about shale gas.
Shale gas has revolutionised energy markets in the US and has substantially reduced costs for both consumers and industry and I believe it has the potential to do the same for Scotland.
“Nearly 40% of Scottish residents are struggling in fuel poverty. I want to see a proactive Scottish Government approach on shale gas that will give hard up Scots a route out of fuel poverty.
“Recently I have visited several factories in my region, and they are crying out for shale gas in order to level the energy price playing field. Unless the Scottish Government can devise a balanced, fair and affordable energy policy, high energy prices will cost manufacturing jobs.
“The potential for offshore shale gas has yet to be explored and I would recommend that the Scottish Government follow DECC’s recommendations and use the existing North Sea infrastructure to tap into this resource.
Murdo is the deputy leader, so this should be seen as a significant statement of intent.