Scottish First Minister John Swinney has renewed his plea to the UK Prime Minister to reconsider the blocking of a proposed Chinese wind farm manufacturing facility, despite having been briefed on national security risks. Swinney formally requested a review of the decision regarding the Ming Yang turbine plant at Ardersier in the Highlands.
His intervention has drawn criticism from UK ministers. Energy Minister Michael Shanks branded Swinney's actions as 'irresponsible,' stating that the First Minister should balance political interests with national security concerns. Shanks noted that he personally ensured Swinney received a high-level security briefing on the matter.
"I think it is for him to answer why he is balancing what seems to me to be a political intervention against the country’s national security. I think it is irresponsible for the First Minister to do that," Shanks said. He added that while the UK government desires job creation, legitimate national security implications necessitate such refusals.
The details of the security risks have not been disclosed, with Shanks referring to them as "classified information."
Swinney's office stated that the First Minister's letter to the Prime Minister acknowledged the importance of national security while highlighting the potential economic benefits of the proposed £1.5 billion investment, which could create up to 1,500 jobs. Scottish Government Energy Minister Stephen Gethins expressed disappointment over the UK government's initial decision, which he said impacted jobs and investment locally, but affirmed ongoing work with the facility.
Earlier this year, Swinney had previously accused the UK government of taking an "anti-Scottish move" when it initially halted the project. Conservative MP Andrew Bowie, the Shadow Scottish Secretary, urged the new Prime Minister to uphold the ban, citing ongoing national security concerns and suggesting the UK should instead focus on domestic energy production.
Ming Yang UK chief executive Aman Wang expressed disappointment with the March decision but stated the company respects the government's security duties and is committed to meeting UK requirements. Wang reiterated the project's potential to bring £1.5 billion in investment and significant job creation to the supply chain.