Is the Scottish government softening on oil and gas?

The Scottish government's stance on oil and gas development has come under scrutiny, with questions raised about a potential shift in its policy. The article suggests that Finance Secretary John Swinney may have softened the government's "presumption against" new oil and gas projects. The report highlights that Swinney's recent comments during a parliamentary committee session have been interpreted by some as a departure from the government's previous stance, which was seen as more restrictive towards the industry. However, the article notes that the government has maintained its commitment to net-zero emissions by 2045 and has not explicitly confirmed a change in its overall policy. The article explores the potential implications of a shift in the government's approach, as the oil and gas sector remains a significant part of Scotland's economy. The discussion also touches on the ongoing debate around the balance between environmental concerns and economic considerations in the country's energy strategy.