This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
On the record video briefing
18/01/2005
First Minister Jack McConnell and Deputy First Minister
Jim Wallace gave an on-the-record briefing to the media at
St Andrew's House in Edinburgh today.
Mr McConnell said their would be no let up in the
momentum of the devolved government's legislative plans
during 2005.
He confirmed that higher economic growth remained the
governemnt's top priority, and measures to tackle the
problem of under-performing schools would be advanced.
In health, the Bill to ban smoking in public places
would progress and the implementation of the Antisocial
Behaviour Act would continue.
Mr McConnell added that 2005 would be an important year
for the promotion of Scotland's international image, with
the G8 meeting in Perthshire and other international
relationship building work under way.
Mr Wallace begins the international work next week with
a trip to China where he said he would be presenting
Scotland's credentials for excellence in life sciences and
higher and further education, as well as promoting wider
cultural links.