Scotland: Internationalism Key To The Future

June 22, 2011

eGovmonitor.com

2nd June 2011

Scotland must capitalise on its competitive advantages and explore the huge economic opportunities available in global markets, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth John Swinney said today.

In his first major speech to Parliament since being re-elected, Mr Swinney said a priority area for sustainable economic growth would be the internationalisation of Scottish businesses and the re-industrialisation of Scotland.

During a debate on Taking Scotland Forward, the Cabinet Secretary outlined the Government's core economic and jobs priorities. He said that the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International will tailor its support to growth firms, in growth sectors and in growth markets to secure new investment and jobs.

Mr Swinney said:

"The Scottish Government is working hard to secure Scotland's economic recovery, attract investment and to create jobs. Last month's labour market figures showed that unemployment fell in Scotland for the 6th consecutive month, and Scotland's employment rate is now the highest of any country in the UK.

"This Government's Economic Strategy and Economic Recovery Plan has established firm foundations for economic growth. We recognise, however, that more needs to be done to support our growth sectors and companies, and to promote Scotland internationally as a competitive and attractive destination for inward investment.

"Last week a survey from Ernst and Young showed that Scotland leads these islands in inward investment projects. In recent months this has been demonstrated by substantial inward investment announcements from Amazon, Mitsubishi Power Systems, Dooson Power and Gaia Wind.

Find out more...