Scotland's Economy

  • State of the economy

    5th March 2012 by

    The Scottish Government’s Chief Economist today published the quarterly State of the Economy report, which provides further evidence that supports my calls to the Chancellor to use the Budget to invest more in capital projects, take action to boost lending to business and build consumer confidence.

    Read more

  • Open letter to business

    24th February 2012 by

    Last year, I wrote to Scottish businesses to assure them that the Scottish Government is doing everything possible within our current powers to ensure Scotland remains the most competitive place to do business in the UK.
    Today I have written to our businesses to outline how our Budget maintains that commitment with 57% of Scottish business properties currently paying zero or reduced business rates bills.

    Read more

  • Primark invest in Edinburgh

    15th February 2012 by

    In December major retailer Primark open its long-awaited store on Edinburgh’s Princes Street. This is significant for two reasons. Firstly it’s changed the shopping landscape on one of the world’s most famous streets. Secondly, it has brought more than 500 jobs to city.

    Read more

  • Budget for economic recovery

    8th February 2012 by

    I confirmed today that additional capital spending of £382 million for 2012 -2015, supporting around 5,000 jobs, has been allocated to support Scotland’s economic growth.
    This is a Budget that boosts public sector capital investment, takes direct action to tackle unemployment, in particular youth unemployment and enhances economic security across the Scottish economy.

    Read more