Government must secure oil industry future, says MP

He said the sector indirectly supported 230 jobs in his constituency through wider supply chain contracts, and a further 100 by economic activity through employees spending.

Mr Crockart said: “Edinburgh West is best known for its financial services headquarters and blue-chip companies, but there is excellence in manufacturing, too.

“In 2010, the oil and gas industry supported 440,000 jobs across the UK, with 45 per cent of these based in Scotland; and there is further growth on the horizon. But the sector is facing a skills shortage in spite of the industry having a good track record in industry-funded and successful apprenticeship schemes. It is, therefore, essential that we ensure the government continues to support the industry and those supply chain companies which face challenges recruiting individuals with relevant skills.”