Scotland faces the twin shocks of Covid-19 and Brexit. These shocks have and will continue to have a huge impact on our economy, jobs and livelihoods.
The challenge presented by climate change and the opportunities of digital economy remain as large as ever and, through all of this, the need to remain globally competitive is hugely important.
This is why the SNP are committed to a laser-like focus on economic recovery, investing in entrepreneurship, infrastructure and technology and creating good, new and green jobs. This cannot mean simply going back to the way things were.
Recovery must have sustainability, wellbeing and fair work built in from the outset.
In the first 6 months of Parliament, the SNP would deliver a new 10 year National Strategy for Economic Transformation, setting out the steps we will take to deliver a green economic recovery and support green jobs.
We want all homes to be energy efficient and zero carbon with access to outdoor space, transport links, digital connectivity and community services. If re-elected we will invest £1.6 billion over the next term to decarbonise the way we heat our homes and other buildings. This will reduce emissions, tackle fuel poverty and importantly create new jobs.
Furthermore, our Green Investment Portfolio will expand from its current value of £1 billion to £3 billion, attracting investment to support our transition to net zero and the growth of innovative environmentally sustainable business in Scotland
Finally, the SNP will ensure that every Local Authority, including Lothian, will have a Nature Network of new, locally driven projects which aim to improve ecological connectivity across Scotland
By giving both votes to the SNP on May 6th, the people of Scotland can elect a Government which is absolutely committed to tackling the climate emergency and ensuring that the recovery from Covid-19 is a sustainable one which will benefit future generations.
Fiona Hyslop