The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Scotland welcomed many of the headline measures but urged Ministers to listen to small and medium sized businesses and the self-employed, as well as trade unions and big business.
Andrew McRae, the FSB in Scotland’s policy chair, said: “A new government report won’t help pay any bills today, but the headline measures in this strategy could help Scotland realise its long-term ambitions.
“Encouraging more people to go into business is the key to broadening and strengthening our economic base. It’s also a powerful tool in driving social mobility. That’s why we’re behind the idea for a Chief Entrepreneurship Officer in the Scottish Government.
“This new leader must be a voice for the private sector in the corridors of power. It’s not just about creating digital multinationals, but championing Scotland’s legion of self-employed people and the go-getters who want to start their own neighbourhood firm. They also need to look at how we make starting a business or becoming self-employed a more realistic, less risky step for far more people.
“The Cabinet Secretary for Finance pledged a ruthless focus on delivery. Delays and confusion associated with covid grant funding shows that there’s much scope for improvement when it comes to execution.
“We’d also urge officials and Ministers to continue to listen to those that run local businesses. For many of these operators spiralling overheads combined with covid-related debt means that a long-term outlook just doesn’t feel possible. Helping these firms weather the ongoing storm must be a key-priority for the Scottish Government.”