The leading Scottish business organisation is calling on all main political parties in
the UK General Election to prioritise economic growth and job creation.

The Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC), which represents 12,000 businesses
across all sectors, has published a 15-point action plan, Rally for Growth, for the next UK Government.

It wants Westminster to establish a Joint Economic Growth Board, a partnership
between business and government, within their first 100 days in office to oversee an
ambitious programme of pro-enterprise and pro-growth policies.

Key priorities for the SCC are a commitment to no new taxes or levies on business
for the lifetime of the next Parliament, investment in a Green Industrial Strategy,
boosting global trade, developing a skilled workforce, a detailed just transition plan
for the oil and gas sector, and cutting VAT across the hospitality, leisure, and tourism
sectors.

Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Director & Chief Executive of the SCC, said:
“The country succeeds when business succeeds. That’s why we are urging the next
UK Government to work closely with the business community to deliver pro-growth
policies to turbo-charge investment, innovation, and job creation.
“The economy is a top three issue for UK voters and the 12,0000 companies we
represent are the drivers of economic growth and employ millions of people. We are
calling for a clear focus on resolving the issues holding our economy back and
stopping investment in jobs.

“Our 15-point policy plan means the next UK Government can get to work on day
one and give our members and our employees the confidence that the Government
backs business.”

Demands on the new government include four key areas:

·       Unleashing Business Growth

·       Accelerating Investment

·       Boosting Global Trade

·       Prioritising People & Talent