04 Sep 2024
Commenting on the Programme for Government, Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
“In a difficult and challenging budgetary environment, the First Minister has taken welcome steps on regulation, planning, investment, and housing. Overall, the statement keeps the economy in focus but will require more urgent action if we are to achieve the growth we desperately need.
“To address the budgetary challenge, we need to see a clear plan of how the Scottish and UK Governments intend to work in partnership to support economic growth and business investment which is the only route to fund our public services.”
On regulation:
“A major drag on growth and investment has been the cumulative impact of regulation and the First Minister has recognised this by committing to ensuring certainty, phasing, and effective implementation.
“Real business partnership will be essential to achieving this.”
On planning:
“We have long called for planning reform which has become one of the most significant barriers to investment. It is right that the Government has listened and is taking active steps to address these blockages, such as the establishment of a new Planning Hub and a further £100 million to support the construction of 2,800, mid-market rent homes.
“Industry stands ready to support the government to provide good homes for communities and green projects to support Net Zero.”
On investment:
“Growth cannot be achieved without unlocking investment, which remains largely frozen in Scotland. It is a positive step that the government has stated that it will action the recommendations of the investor panel. The commitments to support research in our universities and the development of business clusters in growth sectors are also welcome.
“Business will await the detail of how the Heat in Buildings Bill will provide certainty to buildings owners and the supply chain.”
On support for women in business:
“Supporting more women in business is right for the economy and our communities. The Government’s accelerated efforts to implement the recommendations of the Logan and Stewart reviews will enable an increase in the number of women starting and scaling businesses.”
On Non-Domestic Rates:
“While the issue of business rates was not covered in today’s announcement, the government must continue to work with the business community to build on the New Deal for Business agreement to make progressive changes to the business rates system. We need a full top-down review of non-domestic rates to ensure business competitiveness.”
