Scotland's Economy

  • Scottish Government response to Scottish Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Indicator: Q3 2019

    11th October 2019 by

    Commenting on the latest Scottish Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Indicator, Economy Secretary Derek Mackay said: “It’s clear from this latest report that Brexit uncertainty, and in particular the threat of ‘no deal’, is having an increasingly negative impact on business confidence. “As a responsible government, our enterprise and skills agencies continue to work with...

    Read more

  • Scottish Government response to Argyll & Bute Growth Deal funding

    2nd October 2019 by

    Infrastructure Secretary Michael Matheson said: “The UK Government is simply re-announcing money that has already been committed. “The Scottish Government has made clear our commitment to invest in the Argyll & Bute Growth Deal, and we have been ready to do so for some considerable time. “On the basis of our 50:50 approach to funding...

    Read more

  • Scottish National Investment Bank progress

    26th September 2019 by

    Today marks another important step forward for the Scottish National Investment Bank as the legislation to support its establishment and capitalisation reaches its first stage in Parliament. The Bill being considered today lays the foundation for an institution that will be a cornerstone in Scotland’s economic architecture. One with the capability and commitment to reshape...

    Read more

  • Scottish Government response on Babcock

    12th September 2019 by

    Commenting on Babcock being selected as preferred bidder for the £1.25 billion contract to build five Type 31 frigates, Economy Secretary Derek Mackay said: “I am delighted that Babcock has been selected as preferred bidder for the £1.25 billion contract to build five Type 31 frigates and look forward to working with them to maximise...

    Read more

  • This week: 5G, tidal energy and business productivity

    30th August 2019 by

    5G plan First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has unveiled ‘Forging Our Digital Future With 5G‘, a new plan that will put Scotland at the forefront of the 5G technological revolution. 5G is the next generation of mobile internet, offering faster speeds and enhanced connectivity that could transform transport, education, healthcare and agriculture among other sectors. The...

    Read more

  • This week: GERS, Denmark and equal employment opportunities

    23rd August 2019 by

    GERS Scotland’s notional deficit is falling faster than the UK’s, with onshore revenues increasing by 5.1% to reach £61.3 billion in 2018-19 as a result of continued economic growth. According to the Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland (GERS) figures published on 21 June, Scotland benefitted from a £3 billion increase in onshore revenues in the last...

    Read more

  • Internet of Things, E-Bikes and GDP

    9th August 2019 by

    Economic Growth Statistics published this week showed that the Scottish economy grew by 0.6% during the first quarter of 2019. Economy Secretary Derek Mackay said the months and years ahead were crucial as the UK’s EU Exit, and in particular a ‘no deal’ Brexit, risks damaging Scotland’s economic growth. He said:  “Growing the economy is...

    Read more

  • Celebrating Skills for Life

    6th August 2019 by

    A skilled workforce is the backbone of a strong economy, and Scotland’s economy has gone from strength to strength, despite the shadow of uncertainty cast by Brexit. Our unemployment rate is at a record low, while growth in economic output and exports remain strong. To continue to deliver a workforce that is empowered and confident...

    Read more

  • Funding, farms and Future Skills

    2nd August 2019 by

    Read on for our weekly round-up of economy news from this week. Research & Development funding Trade and Innovation Minister Ivan McKee visited M2 Lasers in Glasgow to announce a £2.9 million Research and Development grant, which will create 24 new jobs, including 18 new highly-skilled scientific roles. He said: “Scotland has a long tradition...

    Read more

  • This week: 26/7/19

    26th July 2019 by

    National Islands Plan Island communities are being encouraged to shape the first ever National Islands Plan through a national consultation, which closes today (26 July). The Plan will set out how the Scottish Government, local authorities and other public agencies might work to improve outcomes for island communities. Scottish Ministers will be asked to report...

    Read more