Mistakes made in past deindustrialisation must not be repeated, MPs warn

Scotland’s previous deindustrialisation offers lessons on how to avoid repeating “past mistakes”, a Commons committee has concluded.

The Scottish Affairs Committee’s annual report published on Friday marks the conclusion of its Industrial Transition in Scotland inquiry.

It was launched to provide a high-level assessment of the long-term impact of deindustrialisation in Scotland, and to identify lessons that can be applied today.

The MPs concluded Scotland’s experience of deindustrialisation offers a stark warning: when communities are not adequately supported throughout an industrial transition, the consequences are lasting.

Issues highlighted include a legacy of worklessness, health inequalities, and the loss of specialist industrial skills.

The report has specified there is a need to avoid repeating historic mistakes, recommending future industrial transitions should be grounded in practical action and deliverable commitment to support communities and retain skills.

The committee highlighted that these lessons are all the more important today, as the North Sea oil and gas sector, which supports 66,000 jobs, faces an uncertain future.

Committee chairwoman Patricia Ferguson said: “We heard about the lasting impact of past mistakes during deindustrialisation – as Scotland faces further industrial transitions, it’s vital these mistakes are not repeated.

“Future transitions must ensure long-term, practical support for communities so they can benefit from new industries and opportunities as they emerge.”

On the general work of the committee over the last year, she added: “I’m proud of the work that the Scottish Affairs Committee has undertaken since its election.

“This report reflects a year of rigorous scrutiny across some of the most significant issues facing Scotland today, and demonstrates how we’ve worked to ensure people and communities across Scotland have their voices heard.

“I look forward to another full programme of work in 2026 as we continue to examine how Scotland can secure a resilient and prosperous future.”

The Scottish Government has been approached for comment.