Finance secretary to set out 'refreshed' economic plan

A “refreshed” economic action plan setting out moves to tackle climate change and deal with Brexit is to be revealed by the Finance Secretary.

Derek Mackay said he wanted to meet key economic challenges such as growing employment at the same time as contributing to Scottish Government plans for the country to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045.

The plan, which will be revealed at a business breakfast in Edinburgh on Wednesday, includes a new website aimed at making it easier for businesses to get information and support.

The Findbusinessupport.gov.scot site will detail products, services and events from Scotland’s skills and enterprise agencies – with Mr Mackay hailing it as a “significant step towards transforming the way businesses are supported”.

The plan also commits to having the Scottish National Investment Bank up and running later this year.

A National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland is also to be established, while a National Infrastructure Mission will aim to increase investment in this area.

Mr Mackay said: “The refreshed economic action plan sets out how we will tackle the climate emergency, grow an inclusive economy and face up to the challenges of Brexit, changing demographics and shifting global circumstances.

“I want to ensure that we continue to support innovation, improve skills and stimulate growth in employment.

“We must do all this while also contributing towards our ambitious net-zero targets.”

He added: “A key part of the plan is the need to make it easier for businesses to get information, advice and support at the right time.

“That is why Scotland’s enterprise and skills agencies have come together to develop this new website.

“Findbusinessupport.gov.scot is a significant step towards transforming the way businesses are supported.”