This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Swedish lessons in halting decline
18/10/2002
A Swedish programme to increase their country's
population will be examined by Scottish officials.
First Minister Jack McConnell said that a
self-confident, devolved Scotland can learn from
initiatives introduced by Sweden's Government to encourage
population growth.
The First Minister discussed Sweden's concerted
programme of action, which includes support for new parents
and affordable childcare, at a meeting in Stockholm with
Swedish Prime Minister Goran Persson.
Mr Persson was one of the first European leaders to
highlight the potential economic difficulties created by a
declining population.
The First Minister expressed concern at Scotland's
demographic profile and stressed his aim of promoting a
society where talent from overseas is welcomed.
Mr McConnell and Mr Persson agreed that Executive
officials will discuss the Swedish programme, in particular
childcare, with Swedish Government officials.
Later, addressing a major seminar at the Swedish
Institute of Foreign Affairs during the 'Scotland in
Sweden' programme, Mr McConnell said:
"For a growing economy, we need a growing population,
and I am determined to promote Scotland and meet that
objective. I know that you have faced similar issues in
Sweden and that you are taking action. I am sure that we
can share experience on how to turn this around.
"An economy that retains its key resource - human
capital - and, indeed, attracts skilled people is a healthy
economy. It suggests a dynamic and energetic approach that
creates a powerful image across the world.
"Over recent years, Scotland's population has been at
best stagnant, at worst decreasing - our demographic
profile is ageing. A smaller pool of people can mean less
diversity, less variety and less confidence.
"My aim is to build a society that greets talent to
Scotland, as other countries have welcomed Scottish talent
to theirs. My vision of Scotland in the future is one where
we lift our eyes to the horizon, looking outwards."
The First Minister said that the "radical innovation" of
devolution enables Scotland to tackle the big issues facing
the country, such a population growth, and also bring much
to the development of ideas in Europe and further
afield.
He added:
"Devolution offers us in Scotland a unique set of
opportunities, to set our own priorities, to take the
decisions that affect our lives, and to take responsibility
for own futures. To become a self-confident government.
"And we can project that self-confidence - in Europe and
beyond - to enrich the lives both of the people of Scotland
and of our partners abroad.
"The "Scotland in Sweden" programme is a striking
example of this. It has been a diverse and stimulating
showcase for Scotland that will generate practical benefits
for both our countries.
"Yesterday's prestigious Life Sciences Day clearly
illustrated Scotland and Sweden's enviable position as
world leaders in the field of biotechnological research and
development.
"The many events celebrating Scottish culture, food,
art, sport and tourism staged around Stockholm over the
last few days, and - in conjunction with the British
Council - over a period of several months, clearly
demonstrate a new, confident and vibrant Scotland."
Mr McConnell addressed an audience of over 80 key
business people, academics and opinion formers at the
devolution seminar.
In the Scottish Budget for 2003-2006, it was announced
that the Executive is providing an additional £64.9 million
for childcare and support for families with very young
children by 2006.