‘Grotesque’ BP profits show politicians must end calls to scrap windfall tax

Please note this is a press release from 28/4/26

Climate campaigners have reacted angrily to announcement that BP has made £2.4bn profits in the last three months, largely from increased oil prices due to US – Israeli war on Iran.

The Energy Price Cap for bills from July onwards is almost certain to rise when it is announced later this month.

The SNP, the Conservatives and Reform have spent recent months calling for the Windfall Tax on excessive profits energy companies to be scrapped. This is despite energy firms making £125 billion in profits on their UK operations since the energy bills crisis started with the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Friends of the Earth Scotland’s oil and gas campaigns manager Rosie Hampton said:

“While ordinary people are worried sick about rising energy bills, it’s grotesque that BP are making billions from the violence in Iran.

“Instead of making sure that the windfall profits of these greedy polluters are supporting public services, politicians across Scotland have spent months calling for this necessary tax to be scrapped. They should be hanging their heads in shame today.  

“It’s obscenely unjust to watch this same story play out year on year with ordinary people suffering whilst company bosses and shareholders get even richer from these inevitable crises.  

“Scotland is in prime position to take advantage of the shift to renewables. Taking climate action will improve people’s lives – whether that’s through cheaper bills, warmer homes, or better public transport. 

“We’ve got the workforce, the resources, and the expertise to lead the way. The next Scottish Government must deliver on this transition and end this cycle of profiteering from oil and gas giants once and for all.”