26 Jan 2004
Scottish business leaders and trade union representatives voiced their views on the Treasury's Pre Budget Report and the Scottish economy to Ministers today.
At an open forum with Scottish Secretary Alistair Darling, Chief Secretary to the Treasury Paul Boateng and Scottish Government Finance Minister Andy Kerr, business leaders and trade union representatives had the opportunity to feed their views back to the Treasury in advance of this year's budget.
Alistair Darling said:
"Bringing economic policy closer to business leaders and others with an interest in Scotland's economic future is a valuable process for both Government and the business sector. Today's discussion has provided useful feedback on the Chancellor's Pre-Budget Report and the implications for Scotland. It is essential that the Scottish dimension is fully taken into account in the formulation of economic policy and events such as today's provide excellent opportunities for doing just that."
Paul Boateng said:
"Today's event will provide a valuable contribution to our consideration of the forthcoming Budget. It is important that the Government and the Scottish Government co-ordinate policies on economic development and regeneration in order to strengthen economic growth. The Government is promoting flexibility and fairness in all the regions and nations of the UK. The Pre Budget Report sets out a range of measures which will help to strengthen the Scottish economy."
Andy Kerr said:
"Growing the economy is our number one priority and creating the best possible environment for all businesses to succeed is absolutely crucial to improving Scotland's economic position.
"It is businesses and people, not politicians, who are best placed to do this and that is why this event is so important. It gives business leaders and trade union representatives the opportunity to tell us their views on the planned budget measures.
"The economy picture is improving and I hope that the feedback we receive today will assist us with our commitment to the long-term growth of the Scottish economy.
"Scotland is benefiting from the stable macroeconomic foundations put in place by the UK Government. The Pre Budget Report, presented last December, continues the Chancellor's tradition of setting prudent budget plans and the Executive is committed to continuing to work in partnership."
NOTES TO EDITORS
1.The Treasury published its Pre Budget Report on 10 December 2003.
2. Today's seminar was held at the Scottish Government's offices at Victoria Quay in Edinburgh.