The MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, Keith Brown, has raised concerns over the flurry of reports that Scotland’s only oil refinery, located in Grangemouth, is facing substantial job losses – having a significant impact on the residents of Clackmannanshire and Dunblane employed at the site.  

On Wednesday 22^nd of November the BBC, STV and other outlets reported that the refinery at Grangemouth could cease operations as soon as 2025, with the loss of at least 400 jobs according to the BBC, under plans recently announced by the sites’ owners, Petroineos. 

According to the BBC, there are around 2,000 people directly employed at Grangemouth, including 500 based at the refinery specifically – many of whom reside in Clackmannanshire and Dunblane.  

Local MSP Keith Brown has reacted to this news by raising concerns on behalf of his constituents.  

Commenting, SNP MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, Keith Brown, said: 

“This announcement today has come as a total shock to everyone in the area and across Scotland. 

“The Grangemouth site is the only refinery in Scotland – closing it in this way would be a massive slap in the face to the country responsible for 96% of the UK’s oil production.  

“A just transition means transitioning away from oil and gas in a way that protects jobs. This plan poses a serious threat to local jobs.  

“As we’ve seen in the past with coal, allowing decisions over these critical industries to be made unanimously by individual business, or Governments, without proper consultation with workers and Trade Unions, can lead to disastrous consequences.  

“A better solution can and must be reached.  

“History is at serious risk of repeating itself here – and as your local MSP I’ll do what I can to ensure that jobs at the Grangemouth plant are protected.”