“I supported Jackdaw and Rosebank because I think they’re really crucial for the Scottish economy, for employment, and for the public finances as well,” he told me.

“We need to make sure that we’re a country that people feel they can invest in.

“You’ve seen what’s happened with Jackdaw in recent days – a real boost to the morale and the investment climate in the north east of Scotland.”

He’s also arguing for increased levies on banks in the Budget, to contribute towards the cost of help on the cost of living.

That second request looks set to be granted – which is likely why Marra feels able to make it publicly.

On Rosebank, we still can’t say for sure how things will go.

But the fact this debate is even being had is itself a symbol of our new energy reality.