Scottish First Minister John Swinney has urged the new UK Prime Minister to reconsider the decision to block a proposed Chinese wind farm manufacturing facility in the Highlands. The plea comes despite the UK Government having previously warned of national security risks associated with the involvement of a Chinese firm in critical infrastructure. UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks has called Swinney's actions "irresponsible," suggesting he is balancing political considerations against national security.
Swinney formally requested a review of the decision to block the Ming Yang turbine manufacturing facility at Ardersier from Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The Scottish Government stated that the First Minister's letter recognized the importance of national security while highlighting the economic benefits of the proposed £1.5 billion investment, which could create up to 1,500 jobs. Energy Minister Stephen Gethins expressed disappointment over the UK Government's earlier decision, emphasizing the potential negative implications for local jobs and investment.
Shanks, a minister in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, stated he was surprised by Swinney's renewed push for the project, particularly after Swinney had received a high-level security briefing on the matter. Shanks noted that the government does not oppose job creation in Scotland but believes legitimate national security implications warrant the rejection of such investments. The specific details of these security risks remain classified.
During the Holyrood election campaign, Shanks had himself raised concerns about the project. He told BBC Radio Scotland that the UK Government's decision to say no was based on legitimate national security reasons. He also suggested that if the UK wants to meet its energy needs, it should avoid relying on "hostile regimes" and instead focus on domestic energy sources like new drilling in the North Sea, a point echoed by Tory MP Andrew Bowie, the Shadow Scottish Secretary.
Ming Yang's UK chief executive, Aman Wang, expressed disappointment with the March decision but stated the company respects the government's duty to protect national security and is committed to meeting UK requirements. Wang reiterated the potential for significant investment and job creation, both directly and within the supply chain, stating the company's commitment to supporting UK economic growth and re-industrialization goals.
Swinney had previously described the UK Government's intervention to stop the facility as an "anti-Scottish move." The Ardersier site was intended to be a turbine manufacturing facility, and the project was initially blocked by the UK Government in March due to national security concerns. Swinney's current appeal follows his initial discussions with Prime Minister Burnham and a subsequent letter.