Poll shows majority of Scots want Holyrood to control North Sea drilling

A significant majority of people in Scotland believe that decisions regarding North Sea oil and gas drilling licences should be transferred from Westminster to the Scottish Government, according to new polling data. Research conducted by Ipsos Scotland indicates that 58 per cent of respondents support the Scottish Government making most decisions on these licences, while 33 per cent prefer that powers remain with the UK Government. This sentiment appears to reflect a broader desire for greater autonomy over the region’s energy future, particularly as the UK government moves to legislate a ban on new drilling licences.

Opinions on the matter are deeply divided along political lines. Among supporters of the SNP and those who voted for independence in the 2014 referendum, there is strong backing for transferring responsibility to Holyrood. Conversely, majorities of Conservative and Reform UK voters, along with those who voted against independence in 2014, believe that decision-making should remain at Westminster. Scottish Labour voters present a more balanced view, with 46 per cent favouring continued UK Government control and 45 per cent supporting Scottish Government responsibility.

The survey also examined public understanding of other reserved powers. Support for Scottish control extends to areas such as National Insurance, where 51 per cent of Scots believe Holyrood should make most decisions. On immigration, 48 per cent favour Scottish Government control, compared with 41 per cent who prefer UK Government responsibility. Emily Gray, managing director of Ipsos Scotland, noted that the findings point to a clear appetite for more local decision-making, although preferences remain sharply divided by political allegiance. The research was based on interviews with 1,033 adults aged 16 and over in Scotland between 18 and 28 September.