The Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network has called on the next SNP leader and First Minister to back Scotland's businesses by committing to economic growth as their number one priority.
In an open letter, the organisation asked each candidate to commit to tackling the most urgent issues facing the business community:
- Will economic growth be your number one priority?
- Will you appoint a Minister for Economic Growth and Investment on day one of taking office?
- Will you commit to removing existing and future regulation which is increasing the cost of doing business?
- Will you finally reform Business Rates and ensure UK rates reliefs are equalised for Scotland’s hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors?
Dr Liz Cameron, chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “Scotland needs a credible economic growth plan which must be a top priority for every department in the Scottish Government.
“That can only be delivered if the next First Minister makes economic growth its driving mission and works in an honest and open partnership with the business community.
“There are serious challenges in every sector of the economy: businesses can’t source and find the skills and talent they need to deliver and grow; upfront costs are mounting up; new regulations are eroding our ability to stay in business keeping the staff we have, transport and digital infrastructure is lagging comparative nations, and business confidence needs to be restored if we are to invest for the future.
“Answering ‘yes’ to our questions is the only route for you to demonstrate that Scotland’s entrepreneurs, business owners and employees are being heard and that you have our backs.”
Voting in the contest to succeed Nicola Sturgeon began last week.
Three candidates are in the running for the top job in Scottish politics: with Finance Secretary Kate Forbes, Health Secretary Humza Yousaf and former community safety minister Ash Regan all standing.
SNP members have two weeks to cast their vote, with the ballot closing on 27 March.
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