Scottish Tories pledge ‘growth test’ for government policies

All government policy would be subject to a “growth test” under a Scottish Tory administration, the party has said.

The key focus of the party, according to business spokesman Murdo Fraser, would centre on increasing economic growth.

The party would also merge Scottish Enterprise, Skill Development Scotland and the Scottish National Investment Bank to form Growth Scotland, within which a dedicated exports division would be formed, while a £500 million Scottish Growth Fund would be formed from the capital investment of three agencies.

Mr Fraser said: “Scotland’s economy has stagnated for years under the dead hand of SNP high taxes and regulation.

“That has to end.

“The next Scottish Government must focus relentlessly on the economy – and that’s why we’d subject every new policy to a growth test.”

He added: “That means providing relief for businesses that have been clobbered by SNP taxes but also simplifying the landscape by merging existing quangos into one agency, Growth Scotland, and providing targeted advice and support for exporters.

“Scottish firms are crying out for help and, as the party of business, the Scottish Conservatives have their back and the back of the hard-working Scots they employ.

“That’s why it’s essential that voters use their peach ballot to back us and stop an SNP majority.”