The Government is facing a backlash after Shell pulled out of a controversial North Sea oil and gas project amid rising pressure over climate change. 

Top industry figures accused ministers of failing to stand up for the Cambo project, which is expected to create 1,000 jobs and pump 170m barrels of oil, in the face of sustained opposition from climate campaigners. 

They warned the lack of political support risked creating a hostile environment for investors needed to fund projects vital for oil and gas, which still accounts for 75pc of the UK’s energy needs, as well as the green shift.

Sir Ian Wood, an oil and gas industry veteran now leading efforts on green technologies in Scotland, said: “The skills, experience and infrastructure of a world class oil and gas industry will play a crucial role in accelerating energy transition and meeting net zero. 

“We must support the industry in meeting this ambition and it is essential the Scottish and UK Governments do too. I urge politicians to reflect carefully on their public statements on oil and gas and the impact they have on investment in the industry.”