Comment: RBS's view of the Climate Camp protest

Published on Monday 23 August 2010 02:59

As a large bank RBS provides support for our customers across many industries reflecting the make-up of our society and the economy. Our lending to energy firms, for example, represents around 5 per cent of our total lending, which reflects the sectors share of the global economy.

We do agree that there is a need to transition to a low-carbon economy. However, there is no simple solution. What banks can do is help support the development of renewable energies and in recent years RBS has been one of the most active banks in the world in this area.

In fact in the past five years RBS has provided more project finance to wind power than any other form of energy generation.

Our critics will get publicity from attacking RBS. That's their point and we fully understand their passion for the cause. It is not reasonable, however, to blame a bank for the choices made by society.

If we stopped lending to Scottish oil companies or mining firms we would be straight into the firing line given the many thousands of jobs that depend on them. What we can do is accept there is a global problem and play our part in solving it.

Therefore, whilst we understand the protesters' intent and desire to obtain publicity, we clearly do not agree with their rationale for targeting RBS. Our top priority today will be to ensure the safety of our employees, customers and the public we continue to urge the protesters to make their point peacefully.

• An RBS spokesperson.