"This government has no doubt Scotland can be wealthier and fairer. Increasing the living standards of people across Scotland, especially the most disadvantaged, is central to our actions this year and in the future. On the economy, as in other areas, it is our intention to govern effectively and in partnership with Parliament.
"It is time Scotland's economy and society flourished, and the measures we will take in this Parliamentary year are designed to create the conditions which will allow Scotland to achieve greater succes."
(Principles and Priorities: The Government's Programme for Scotland)
Legislation
Non-Legislation Priorities:
- Will publish a Government Economic Strategy and the steps that will be taken to achieve targets for economic growth - including raising Scotland's growth rate to the UK level by 2011
- Work with Local Authorities to freeze council tax at 2007-08 levels and begin detailed consultation on proposals to replace council tax with a local income tax based on ability to pay
- Set out proposals to reduce or remove the rates burden for small businesses in Scotland