First Minister John Swinney will today urge the UK Government to ramp up its support for Scotland’s industrial sites in a major address to the STUC Annual Congress in Dundee.
He will call for a new UK-wide industrial strategy that ensures Scotland’s economic potential is fully realised and promoted.
In his speech, the First Minister will highlight the urgent need for investment that recognises Scotland’s strengths rather than stopping at the border.
Mr Swinney will tell delegates that the current climate of global uncertainty demands bold action from governments at every level.
He will say that economic security and a shift in the global order require new thinking to ensure Scotland remains a place where business can thrive.
Recent discussions with business leaders and trade unions have shown a clear recognition that Scotland must adapt swiftly to these new challenges.
The First Minister will stress the importance of creating a highly skilled workforce that makes Scotland a magnet for investment.
He will underline that fair work practices and giving workers a strong voice must be central to the country’s industrial future.
The Scottish Government, he will affirm, is determined to support these goals every step of the way.
However, Mr Swinney will insist that Scotland cannot be left to do it alone.
He will criticise the UK Government’s tendency to intervene south of the border while ignoring key Scottish industries.
Saving British Steel in Scunthorpe was the right decision, he will say, but similar support must be extended to vital Scottish sites like Grangemouth.
He will make clear that securing a just transition for Grangemouth workers is a top priority for the Scottish Government.
The First Minister will argue that if nationalising British Steel is justified, then saving Scottish industrial assets must be seen as equally important.
Mr Swinney will call on the UK Government to scrap rigid fiscal rules that are holding back necessary investment.
He will also call for closer cooperation with the European Union and the reversal of damaging hikes to employers’ National Insurance contributions.
Protecting Scottish industry will require bold, collaborative action from both Holyrood and Westminster, he will say.
The First Minister will close by offering the Scottish Government’s full commitment to working together to safeguard jobs, communities and the economy through turbulent times.
