Actions to deepen and strengthen co-operation between the Scottish government and business have been unveiled.
A new implementation plan details how recommendations from the New Deal for Business Group will be taken forward over the next 18 months to improve policy preparation and delivery and build a wellbeing economy.
Actions include a forum to oversee the impact of regulations on industry and a full review of how government policy is developed to ensure businesses are consulted at all stages – particularly when new regulation is a potential outcome. Work will also start immediately on helping more parents and carers to get back into work.
Other measures include:
- keeping non-domestic rates reforms under review to ensure they support businesses and communities.
- developing new ways to assess the impact of regulations on business.
- ensuring the right business voices are involved in policy development.
- seeking views on health and work, flexible working and just transition plans from across the business sector.
- outlining and measuring how business contributes to a wellbeing economy.
- assessing the type of support businesses are seeking to help government better understand their needs.
Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray said: “I am grateful for the commitment shown by business to the New Deal and to group members for developing the recommendations which are now agreed actions. Only by working together can we turn the dial on business-government relations and deliver a wellbeing economy, creating the best possible place for business, people and planet.”
Dr Poonam Malik, Head of Investments at the University of Strathclyde, who co-chairs the group, added: “Listening actively to business and working in meaningful partnership on common goals will reap rewards and grow our economy ambitiously for the benefit of all of Scotland.
“Having government and business in sync with each other, to deliver growth for our nation with a culture of collaboration – being open and inclusive, with innovative and creative thinking – will overcome the main challenges and break down barriers to high productivity, bringing investment and creating high-quality jobs.”
