This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Minister sets out economic priorities
21/01/2004
Scotland does have the powers to make a real difference
to the economy, according to Enterprise Minister Jim
Wallace.
In a speech at Glasgow University, Mr Wallace said the
Executive's strategy for economic growth had a clear
purpose - to help change the lives of individuals and
communities.
He said:
"Sustained economic growth is about more than just
statistical indicators and whether they are pointing in the
right direction.
"Growth has a very human side. Growth brings jobs.
Growth brings fulfilment to individuals and communities.
Sometimes it brings hope when it is most needed. It has the
ability to revitalise people and the areas in which they
live. That should not be overlooked and that is why it is
our top priority.
"Equity and Social Justice are not optional extras in
pursuing growth. Tellingly, if Glasgow's employment rate of
65% could be brought up to the Scottish average of 74%, it
would involve tens of thousands of people achieving
productive employment. As people participate in the labour
market - participate indeed in society - their lives and
their health would improve whilst they add to the nation's
economic output. How this can be achieved is a real
challenge - but there can be no doubt that it is a
challenge that we must rise to, and one which will require
the collaborative effort of many present here this
evening."
Mr Wallace continued:
"The UK Government has control of the fiscal and
macro-economic levers. And Scotland does not control the
global factors that have such a great bearing on our open,
trading economy. But we do have the powers that now
matter.
"Pre-devolution, governments perhaps tended to overlook
these important levers. But I believe that since 1999
Scottish Ministers have been freed up to focus on the tools
which can enhance innovation, skills, R&D, creativity,
technical progress, and the transport and electronic
infrastructure. We will use these tools to help increase
the value of our economy's output and the efficiency with
which it is produced.
"We will keep on top of every single aspect of it to
ensure we are making progress. Where that progress is not
happening, I will not hesitate to change things. While I
am convinced that the strategy is the right one, I am
equally convinced that successful delivery of that strategy
is what matters most."