McAlpine welcomes £500m business fund

 

Joan, who convenes the Scottish Parliament’s Europe Committee said that a renewed focus on bolstering the economy was needed to combat the uncertainty caused by Brexit.

 

The fund will offer individual investment guarantees, and some loans, of up to £5m to small and medium sized firms who would otherwise be unable to grow because of a lack of investment finance

 

The First Minister announced a raft of other measures to bolster the economy – including a £100m capital stimulus programme.

 

As well as the economy, making our education system the best in the world will be another key focus of the SNP government – with pilot schemes to reduce childcare costs for low income families and empowering schools to raise attainment among the initiatives outlined this week.

 

Commenting, the South Scotland MSP said:

 

“The opposition parties have been complaining that the SNP are focussing on independence, but I think it is they who seem obsessed.

 

“This programme for government proves beyond doubt that we are ‘getting on with the job.’ 

 

“The SNP is focused on creating a more prosperous country with opportunities for all – and also mindful of the need to alleviate the uncertainty caused by the disastrous Brexit vote caused by the Tories.

 

“Education and the economy are the backbone of the country – I’m sure we can all agree on that.

 

 “The measures outlined in this week Programme for Government are to be welcomed.”