CBI responds to a speech by John Swinney MSP, Deputy First Minister, at SNP conference in Aberdeen

Hugh Aitken, CBI Scotland Director, said:

“Business shares the ambition to build a more prosperous Scotland where people can get on in life. That means tackling the big issues like staying on top of public finances, attracting even more investment and raising the higher skills-base here in Scotland.

On business rates:

“The CBI has been calling for the next Scottish Government to ensure our business rates remain competitive and help deliver economic growth.

“With Scottish councils getting this responsibility by the end of the month, this announcement must be used as an opportunity for councils and local businesses to work closely together to create competitive rates which will mean more jobs and drive innovation throughout every part of Scotland.

“With such a short timeframe, the Scottish Government must ensure that local councils have the resources and most importantly the knowledge to deliver the right environment for businesses to succeed.

“More broadly, the next Holyrood Government will need to set out an overall tax roadmap to provide certainty to businesses’ long-term planning and strengthen the economy.

On the rail upgrade announcement for Aberdeen to Inverness:

“Top-class transport infrastructure plays a major role in spurring economic growth, so business will welcome this announcement.

On broadband:

“We are encouraged by the focus on expanding Scotland’s broadband infrastructure but we need to see a similar commitment on improving the country’s mobile connectivity. In the 21^st century digital connectivity is an essential component to economic success, so business wants it integrated into all future infrastructure planning and development decisions.”

SOURCE: The CBI