Falkirk MP Euan Stainbank has asked for an urgent meeting with John Flint, CEO of the National Wealth Fund, to discuss the future of the Grangemouth refinery.
He wants to explore potential public investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production.
The request follows Mr Stainbank’s question in the House of Commons last month, where he highlighted the strategic opportunity for Grangemouth to be converted into an aviation fuel facility ahead of its scheduled closure later this year.
He is urging immediate action to ensure Grangemouth remains a key player in Scotland’s energy transition and industrial future.
The letter has been co-signed by Kirsteen Sullivan MP (Bathgate and Linlithgow), Brian Leishman MP (Alloa and Grangemouth), and Chris Kane MP (Stirling and Strathallan), underscoring the strong cross-constituency support for action on this issue.
Mr Stainbank said:“Grangemouth is at a crossroads. We can either allow this refinery to close with no plan, with devastating consequences for jobs and the local economy, or we can seize the opportunity to support its acceleration into a hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel production. The National Wealth Fund has a critical role to play in making that transition happen.
“We cannot afford to wait. The UK’s Strategic Aviation Fuel Mandate is already in force, and Scotland’s only refinery is set to shut down in a matter of months. If we don’t act now, we risk losing the workforce, the infrastructure, and the investment potential that could secure Grangemouth’s future for decades to come.
“Labour was elected on a promise to invest in a just transition, to rebuild industrial strategy, and to bring prosperity to places that have been left behind by Tory failure and SNP inaction. People in Falkirk and across Scotland are rightly asking when we will deliver—this meeting is about making sure our constituents and the workers at Grangemouth have the answers”.
Ms Sullivan said: “The closure of the Grangemouth refinery threatens hundreds of jobs, including workers from my constituency especially those from Linlithgow and Bo’ness. However, by investing in its conversion to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel, we have a vital opportunity to protect jobs, drive local economic growth, and secure a greener future. “Swift action is essential to support our skilled workforce, ensure the industrial base is fit for the future, strengthen Britain’s energy security, and safeguard our communities. I stand with my colleagues in urging energy companies to engage with the National Wealth Fund to prioritise this crucial transition.”
Mr Leishman said: The consequences of the Grangemouth refinery closing will reverberate around Scotland. This isn’t just a local constituency problem - this is the biggest industrial issue to impact our country in 40 years.
“If closure does indeed happen, then job losses on site will be in the hundreds and when we factor in the wider supply chain they will be in the thousands.
“The economic and social impact will be felt for decades to come, and the government should use all levers at its disposal to ensure a just transition where workers and their communities aren’t left behind. Time is running out for the government to do the right thing and it’s imperative that they act immediately.
Mr Kane said: “Grangemouth is a key economic centre for the Forth Valley with many jobs in the supply chain in Stirling, as well as many of those who work in Grangemouth choosing to live in Stirling. It is vital that we retain the refinery and the jobs and ensure that the just transition is part of a bright future for Grangemouth and the Forth Valley economic region.“
“The UK and Scottish Governments must have a laser like focus on achieving the outcome we all want and need for Grangemouth in these crucial coming months.”