MORAY, SCOTLAND — Chancellor Rachel Reeves is in Scotland today for the second time in a week, declaring that the UK Government is investing billions of pounds to harness Scotland’s economic potential—particularly in defence and energy.
Speaking ahead of her Friday visit, Reeves said Labour is committed to “seizing the huge potential and opportunities that Scotland has to offer” as part of the UK’s wider plan to stimulate economic growth, secure high-skilled jobs, and strengthen national infrastructure.
Focus on Defence and Energy
Her itinerary includes RAF Lossiemouth in Moray—home to over 200 Boeing staff and the production site for the UK’s three new E-7 Wedgetail surveillance aircraft—and the St Fergus gas terminal in Aberdeenshire, a critical facility for the UK’s energy supply.
“From powering the UK with energy from the North Sea to building state-of-the-art defence capabilities, Scotland is at the heart of our long-term plan for jobs and growth,” Reeves said.
The Chancellor’s visit comes alongside Labour’s broader pledge to increase UK defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2030—a commitment that could contribute an additional 0.3% to national GDP, according to Treasury estimates.
Economic Impact for Scotland:
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26,100 jobs expected to be created in Scotland alone through the defence and energy investment strategy.
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Strengthened collaboration with global firms like Boeing, Rolls-Royce, and BP in areas ranging from aerospace to low-carbon transition.
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Billions in public and private investment flowing into the North East and Central Belt.
Return Visit Highlights Strategic Priority
Today’s trip marks Reeves’ second visit to Scotland in just seven days, following her tour of the Rolls-Royce manufacturing site near Glasgow Airport last week. That visit focused on advanced manufacturing and green technology.
The frequent presence of the Chancellor signals a strategic shift in how the Labour-led UK Government is engaging with Scotland—not only in policy but in visible, place-based investment.
While Reeves is keen to emphasise economic opportunity, the visit also underscores growing political attention on Scotland’s defence footprint and the potential role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects at St Fergus in helping meet net-zero targets.
Strong Message of Partnership
The Chancellor’s remarks were framed as part of a broader message of UK-Scotland collaboration, with Labour positioning itself as a party that “delivers for every part of the United Kingdom” through shared economic progress rather than constitutional division.
“Scotland is a key partner in our mission to build a stronger, more secure, and more prosperous Britain,” Reeves said. “We are backing Scottish workers, industries, and innovation with serious investment.”
