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Listen
Pathfinders to the Parliament
FOREWORD BY THE ENTERPRISE, TRANSPORT & LIFELONG LEARNING MINISTER
In the three years since the publication of the 'Pathfinders to the Parliament' report, we have periodically revisited the findings to monitor progress and review activity. I am delighted that the majority of the report's recommendations have been taken on board by both the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Executive, leading to genuine debate with the business sector about future business and industrial policy. Many of the recommendations are currently being progressed and others will be carried forward.
As a small economy, Scotland is inevitably alive to changes in the global economy. We must play to our strengths; we must focus quickly on opportunities and an agenda for change. If we are to take advantage of the opportunities open to us, we need to continually seek a competitive edge. We need to help our manufacturing sector acquire skills and position itself at the higher value end of the market. We in the Executive will continue to play a key role in creating the climate for growth, investing in new sources of success and in building the necessary supporting infrastructure - and the Scottish business sector is integral to all this.
Many of the themes from the Pathfinders report were woven into the Smart, Successful Scotland Strategy for the Enterprise Networks, which I launched early last year, whose key priorities are:
- Growing businesses
Scotland: a fast learning, high earning nation - Global Connections
Scotland: a globally connected nation - Learning and Skills
Every Scot ready for tomorrow's jobs
Since the establishment of the Scottish Parliament, a huge amount has been delivered and a great many people - including those from the business sector - have worked hard to achieve this. The process of change has been complex and challenging - and we are all involved in meeting the new demands imposed upon us. I believe that devolution is creating the opportunity to work together to achieve our common goals. We are only beginning to release the energies of Scotland and to deliver real improvements for business life in Scotland.
I commend this Progress Report on the 'Pathfinders to the Parliament' initiative, which not only demonstrates the Scottish Executive's commitment to listen to business, and act on what is suggested, but proves that together the Scottish Executive, and Scottish business, can provide a bright economic future for Scotland. I hope it provides food for thought for everyone interested in the health and future prosperity of the Scottish economy. What devolution has given us is the opportunity to strike out in a new direction here in Scotland whilst preserving the stability of UK macro policies and our largest trading market. Much has been achieved and much remains to be done. The challenge for all stakeholders is to press ahead, consolidating the reforms so far and building broader support for the other changes that should yet come.
WENDY ALEXANDER, MSP
Enterprise, Transport & Lifelong Learning Minister
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