WIREDGOV

After eighteen torrid months for Scottish business, where jobs and livelihoods have hung in the balance, CBI Scotland is calling on the SNP to use the forthcoming Programme for Government to make good on their election promise to ‘put the economy first.’ 

With COVID-19 restrictions largely removed, and society entering a new phase of ‘living with the virus’, the Programme for Government offers an early opportunity for the Scottish Government to turbo-charge Scotland’s post-pandemic recovery, while also working to control case numbers. 

In a letter to the First Minister, CBI Scotland outlines practical actions in three clear areas, skills, investment in the green economy and boosting connectivity, where the Scottish Government can turn ambitions for Scotland’s economy into immediate action.  

Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said: 

“During the election campaign we had parties of all stripes telling business that economic recovery was their number one priority. With skills shortages biting, stock levels dropping and the cost of materials soaring, it’s vital that the SNP, and their Scottish Green partners, use the Programme for Government to make good on their promise to prioritise our economic recovery. 

“Part of that mission is to build confidence in the recovery by sending a clear message that it’s safe to go back to work and encouraging individuals to get out and spend money. The other is really focusing on the challenges and opportunities facing Scotland to build an economy that is fair, sustainable and competitive in the long-term.   

“CBI Scotland has highlighted a series of concrete policy recommendations that can be actioned now to turn lofty ambition into economic reality. Without immediate steps to boost growth and competitiveness, Scotland risks squandering the platform given to us by the vaccine and in turn choking off economic recovery at source.” 

Click here for the full press release