Commenting after the First Minister’s speech in Glasgow, (1st Dec 2014), Liz Cameron, Director and Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“Today, our new First Minister committed to an open, working relationship with the Scottish business community.  One in which new ideas and approaches driven by what business needs, would be welcomed. This is a positive step forward.   The First Minister specifically focussed her attention towards ensuring that Scottish business not only has a competitive environment to work in, but world leading.  We share that ambition. 

“However, the proof of the pudding is always in the eating. We need to see policies being developed and emerging which match what business needs to enable us to continue to compete, create jobs and increase our investment.  My plea is that business is actively engaged at the ideas stage so that we can truly influence and work in an effective partnership with Government.  All too often, business is at the end of the government cycle when it is often too late to make any substantive changes in key areas.  Perhaps now, is the opportunity to change that culture.  

“Our Chamber Network looks forward to working with the new First Minister and her team.”