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Scottish Financial Enterprise launches manifesto

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5 months ago

June 17, 2024

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Scottish Financial Enterprise launches manifesto

Scottish Financial Enterprise has launched its general election manifesto, asking all political parties to support the sector.

Among the document’s specific recommendations are the creation of a new biannual Joint Ministerial Growth Forum between the UK and Scottish governments, a review of student visa arrangements, and the publication of a long-term tax strategy.

The manifesto will be launched at the Holyrood Sources Economy Hustings in Edinburgh today. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, Scottish Conservative economy spokesperson Murdo Fraser, Scottish Labour economy spokesperson Michael Marra and Scottish Liberal Democrat economy spokesperson Willie Rennie will all be asked to give their backing.

Scottish Financial Enterprise’s chief executive Sandy Begbie said: “Financial and professional services in Scotland already contribute more than £14.3bn GVA to the UK economy each year, employing almost 150,000 people in high-wage, high-skill jobs.

“Our sector growth strategy, published last year, outlines our plan to increase that contribution still further, adding £7bn GVA to the UK economy each year by 2028.

“But to achieve that – and to help our sector contribute to the sustainable growth of the wider economy – we need the support of government.

“That means government working with and not against business, and a commitment from all parties to put economic growth at the heart of government.

“Only by supporting Scotland’s financial and professional services industry can the next government help create the sustainable economic growth our country needs.”