WIREDGOV

Scottish Government set to call for more powers to boost economy and tackle inequality.

Minsters are set to outline plans for more powers for the Scottish Parliament this week.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney will argue that transferring responsibility for business taxes, employment law, minimum wage, further welfare power and equality law are the right levers to grow the economy and create a fairer society.

Mr Swinney said:

“The Scotland Bill must deliver real power for the Scottish Parliament. It must fulfil the Smith Agreement in full, but we have always said we will argue for more levers to grow our economy and tackle inequality.

“The Scottish Government believes we should move towards Full Fiscal Autonomy as the best route to fulfil Scotland’s potential.

“In the meantime, we are prioritising the transfer of additional powers to incentivise key sectors, raise productivity and attract investment.

“Powers over the minimum wage, employment policy and benefits would allow us to build a coherent approach to training, education and support for people out of work or experiencing in-work poverty.

“We would use powers over equality to create a fairer society by tackling the gender pay gap and strengthening protection from discrimination.

“These are our priorities and I will be making the case for swift devolution of further powers to the Secretary of State for Scotland.”