- Wellbeing Economy Secretary promises to help drive growth.
The voice of business is being heard at the heart of government,
Wellbeing Economy Secretary has told industry leaders.
Addressing the Scottish Chambers of Commerce annual dinner in
Glasgow, Mr Gray said he was committed to strengthening the
partnership with business and consulting on policy.
He also acknowledged the need to tackle labour and skills
shortages and confirmed the Scottish Government would update
shortly on plans for the reform of lifelong education and skills
training.
Mr Gray said:
“Growth is fundamental to a vision for a wellbeing economy and
business plays a crucial role in achieving that.
“The New Deal for Business Group aims to ensure businesses can
navigate the policy development process. This will mean they can
contribute more effectively, ensuring that informed choices are
made by government around the timing, content and practical
consequences of new policies.
“The voice of business is not just being listened to, it is being
put at the heart of government. We have published an
implementation plan on recommendations deriving from the New Deal
Group and I am very conscious that, to keep earning your trust, I
must deliver on it.
“This will not provide a solution to all policy issues or stop
differences of opinion, but I hope it will ensure that operate on
the basis of no surprises. Our policy should be informed by your
expertise and your business planning should be informed by clear,
early signals of policy.
“We continue to work with industry to develop our Talent
Attraction and Migration Service and create the conditions to
help business flourish and, in turn, drive economic growth that
benefits all of society.”
