Meeting of the Parliament 27 February 2025
The structure of the combined authority in Manchester allows the constituent borough local authorities to unite around a clear plan. The secret to the success in Manchester is the degree to which the combined authority provides a point of unity and co-ordinated action rather than an additional structure.
We need to look at the barriers to investment. I have already mentioned the enterprise agencies. The real question is whether they focus on the right things. They do a great deal that is positive, whether that is Scottish Development International or the co-investment funds. Those are areas where they do well, but I question whether their focuses are correct. All too often, businesses in key sectors, such as tourism, that are important to the economy get turned away because they are not in the right sector.
There is a question whether the agencies should focus purely on initial investment or whether they could do just as much by winning repeat investment. For example, in Scotland, we have 25 per cent of Pernod Ricard’s globally invested capital, but that is as a result of repeat investment. Likewise, I have heard from financial services firms that have invested here despite the lack of help from Scottish Enterprise rather than because of its help.
I fear that I need to close, but I will say that there are points around skills, and I agree with the Conservatives’ points about infrastructure and connections. I also agree with their point that we need to remove build-to-rent properties from the rent restrictions.
Finally, in the budget debate the other day, I misquoted a number. Kenny Gibson challenged me, and he was absolutely correct to do so. I have taken the opportunity to correct the record on that point in the chamber.
I move amendment S6M-16595.1, to insert at end:
“; recognises the best practice that is happening across the UK, including in Greater Manchester, where joined-up working across the public and private sector, investment in infrastructure, and an industrial strategy have boosted investment in the region; notes Department for Business and Trade statistics showing that Scotland comes seventh out of 12 for jobs created by inward investment projects, compared to fourth for the North West of England, and believes that the Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise have failed to maximise Scotland’s economic potential and provide support to sectors that are key to Brand Scotland and attracting inward investment, including tourism, food and drink, and financial services.”
15:55Motions, questions or amendments mentioned by their reference code.