politics
Conservatives win Aberdeen South by-election on North Sea energy platform
The Scottish Conservatives secured their first Westminster by-election victory in more than 50 years in Aberdeen South. The result followed a campaign focused on oil and gas policy after no new drilling licences were issued and two major field projects were halted.
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The Scottish Conservatives won the Aberdeen South by-election, marking their first Westminster victory in more than 50 years. The party took the seat after campaigning on North Sea energy issues in the constituency that includes the city known as the oil capital of Europe.
Voter turnout reflected local concern over the sector. The Scottish National Party's vote fell from 15,213 in 2024 to 8,258. A party source attributed the drop to perceptions that its stance on oil and gas is weak.
Policy background Current rules bar new oil and gas licences.
The energy profits levy remains in place. Drilling at the Rosebank oil field and Jackdaw gas field has stopped after legal challenges on climate grounds. The energy secretary holds final authority on whether work at those sites can resume. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has stated that additional drilling would not reduce household energy bills.
Reactions from industry and unions Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the outcome reflected failed policies on oil and gas. The union represents offshore workers. Climate campaigners have supported the restrictions, describing the North Sea as a declining basin.
The International Energy Agency head Fatih Birol has also said more drilling would not lower bills. The Conservative leader stated after the result that the party had won the referendum on oil and gas. Questions about the basin's future remain after the Manchester mayor's parliamentary victory elsewhere.
