Workers from the Lindsey Oil Refinery in North Killingholme have congregated outside of Parliament, urging the government to deter the facility’s sectioning and possible shutdown. The refinery’s future is uncertain after the Prax Group entered administration in June, risking hundreds of jobs at this pivotal employer in Lincolnshire. Sharon Graham, the Unite union’s general secretary, criticised the absence of a government strategy for transitioning oil and gas workers into green jobs. Despite previous promises of a ‘Training Guarantee’ to support workers into the clean energy sector, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has yet to respond to requests for comments.
Hundreds gathered at the George V statue to emphasise the urgent need for government action to continue the refinery’s operations. Interest from a potential purchaser has been telegraphed by local MP Martin Vickers and North Lincolnshire Council leader Rob Waltham, though specifics are yet to be revealed. If the refinery closes, it would risk 450 direct jobs and 500 contracted positions, as well as countless others in the supply chain. Since the facility ceased operations, the UK’s domestic fuel supply has reduced by 10%, according to Unite. Ms Graham underscored the refinery’s significance as critical national infrastructure and appealed for quick government action to safeguard its future and defend local employment.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
