FIRST Minister John Swinney will today declare his Government is a “firmly pro-business administration” in a major speech aimed at resetting the SNP’s relationship with industry.
In his first major speech since becoming SNP leader, Swinney will outline his desire for a “partnership with trade unions and business” to create a stronger economy.
He is also expected say the Scottish Government will “go all out” to promote investment in the Scottish economy.
It is an attempt to bring businesses back on side after the lengthy administration of his predecessor but one Nicola Sturgeon, who alienated many businesses with lengthy Covid lockdowns and policies such as the deposit return scheme.
Swinney will say: “My goal is to help people live happier and healthier lives with higher living standards and to help businesses boost profitability. The evidence shows that independent countries that are comparable to Scotland are wealthier and fairer than the UK.
“Scotland has the talents and resources to match that performance with independence but in the here and now and in the face of Brexit we must work even harder to help Scotland’s economy with the powers we have.
“I will go all out to encourage investment in Scotland and I will ensure people know my government is a firmly pro-business administration.”
He will also speak about Scotland’s “incredible renewable energy” which he said should be a source of optimism.
Swinney will say: “A partnership with trade unions and business will be at the core of my approach and through that approach and given our resources, not least incredible renewable energy, we should look to the future with hope and optimism.”
The First Minister will also outline the values which will inform his policy making approach.
He is expected to set out how he will form policy which is moderate left of centre and in keeping with “progressive values” and “problem solving based on evidence”.
The First Minister will highlight significant announcements in Scotland’s renewable energy sector this week, including a £100 million credit facility for Ardersier Port and progress on the construction of a new sub-sea cable factory by Japanese firm Sumitomo.
