Ben Macpherson, MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith, has challenged politicians from all parties at Holyrood to get behind the Scottish Government in delivering “the best for Scotland”.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has today set out her plans for a more prosperous Scotland – building on the SNP’s success in delivering better public services, creating opportunities for all and with a strong focus on growing the economy and creating jobs.
With a commitment to getting on with the day to day of governing Scotland, the SNP Government has unveiled a comprehensive legislative programme – including bills on Social Security, Air Passenger Duty, Railway Policing and Gender Balance on Public Boards which make use of new powers that are being devolved to the Scottish Parliament.
Central to an ambitious package on the economy is a new Scottish Growth Scheme worth £500 million, targeted at SMEs with significant growth or export potential – offering guarantees or loans of up to £5 million per eligible business.
Ben Macpherson MSP said: “There can be no doubting the SNP’s commitment in focusing on the day to day business of government and creating opportunities for everyone.
“Today the First Minister has set out an ambitious Programme for Government with significant support for education, our schools, for childcare, for economic growth, for better public services and for empowering local communities in every part of Scotland.
“It’s a plan which is direct and determined – we’re getting on with the job of delivering the commitments made in our manifesto, on which we were elected to serve a third historic term as Scotland’s government.
“And it shows we’re using the new powers coming to Holyrood to the full – recognising the new responsibilities of our parliament and the importance of shaping progressive policies in these key areas.
“Our ambition to create a wealthier and fairer country is one which all parties should rally behind, as we strive to get the best for all of Scotland.”