Shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray today warned a British exit from the European Union would be bad for the oil and gas industry.
The Labour frontbencher also cautioned against the UK turning its back on export markets Scottish businesses have worked so hard to build.
And he branded those who argue the UK’s voice would be heard louder in isolation as “completely and utterly wrong”.
Mr Murray told the Press and Journal: “The north-east is, of course, home to the UK’s oil and gas industry.
“Although times are tough, the region has thrived through its ability to welcome companies and workers from across the EU – and indeed the world – facilitate trade and investment, and maintain a network of supply chains spanning the country.
“Anything that impaired the ability to trade freely would be bad for the industry.”
Picking up on comments this week by Bank of England governor Mark Carney, he said: “Leaving the EU could lead to financial instability, higher inflation and lost jobs.
“Conversely, being able to trade with our EU partners, unfettered by tariffs and trade barriers, is essential to many Scottish businesses.”
The Edinburgh MP said the EU accounted for almost half of Scotland’s export trade.
He pointed to the Scotch whisky industry, which supports 40,000 jobs, including 7,000 in rural areas, and adds £3.3billion to the UK economy.
He continued: “Scottish businesses have worked hard to build these links and develop these markets. It makes no sense to turn our back on them. In fact, we should be encouraging more businesses to export to the EU.
“There are those that argue that our voice would be heard louder in isolation than it is in concord with our friends and neighbours. They are completely and utterly wrong.”
