Budget 2013: Budget is defining moment for UK energy, says expert

20 Mar 2013 | 02:38 pm |

Commenting on the announcements made by the Chancellor in his Budget today, Head of Energy and Natural Resources, Bob Ruddiman, said: "Today's announcement of a ‘shale gas field allowance’ and a generous tax regime for shale will ultimately define how the industry will develop."

"The Chancellor indicated there would be community participation in the shale revolution. History proves this is easier said than implemented.

"The Chancellor indicated that the contract for decommissioning will be available to view soon. This is a good example of industry and politics working together to provide an outcome that will benefit all stakeholders.

"The Conservative Party was clear about its support for the industry and have demonstrated their commitment.  The Treasury were slightly blind sided by this previously and now is the opportunity to take positive action.

"This is crucial for the industry and there will be disappointment in the market if there is the same kind of delays and confusion as we've previously seen with energy policy. Lessons have been learned from mistakes made by successive governments in respect of both the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors. 

"We hope to see a speedy and smooth running process leading to decisions being made and enabling shale gas to develop in the UK."

Latest press releases

Show me all press releases

Pinsent Masons recruits team to launch restructuring and insolvency practice in Australia

Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has added to it Australian financial services capabilities with the appointment of partner Hannah Griffiths to lead the firm’s restructuring and insolvency practice in Australia.

Pinsent Masons advises GEV Wind Power on acquisition of the Rigcom Group

Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has advised leading wind turbine repair and maintenance provider GEV Wind Power on the acquisition of the Australian based Rigcom Group.

Pinsent Masons MPillay advises Coro Energy plc on sale of European gas business

Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons MPillay has advised Southeast Asian energy company Coro Energy plc on the sale of Coro Europe Limited to Zodiac Energy plc.

People who viewed this press release also viewed

Show me all press releases

Pinsent Masons recruits team to launch restructuring and insolvency practice in Australia

Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has added to it Australian financial services capabilities with the appointment of partner Hannah Griffiths to lead the firm’s restructuring and insolvency practice in Australia.

Pinsent Masons advises GEV Wind Power on acquisition of the Rigcom Group

Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has advised leading wind turbine repair and maintenance provider GEV Wind Power on the acquisition of the Australian based Rigcom Group.

Pinsent Masons MPillay advises Coro Energy plc on sale of European gas business

Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons MPillay has advised Southeast Asian energy company Coro Energy plc on the sale of Coro Europe Limited to Zodiac Energy plc.

For all media enquiries, including arranging an interview with one of our spokespeople, please contact the press office on

+44 (0)20 7418 8199 or 

Location contacts

We are processing your request. \n Thank you for your patience. An error occurred. This could be due to inactivity on the page - please try again.