DAVID RICHARDSON: How can the new First Minister win the confidence of the business community?

Few would argue with any government that wishes to create “a more prosperous, fairer and greener economy that works for everyone”, which is exactly what the Scottish Government seeks to do in its National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET).

However, the stronger the economy the more that can be done, and it’s not words but actions that count. Sadly, instead of the whole country working together to create a better Scotland, many smaller businesses find themselves alienated.

The problem centres largely on the Scottish Government’s new or proposed regulations: short-term lets licenses, the Deposit Return Scheme, restrictions on the advertising and promotion of alcohol, local visitor levies, and Highly Protected Marine Areas. All are being imposed on businesses and all will impact here disproportionately.

Many believe that this problem has arisen because power has been increasingly centralised in Holyrood, and politicians and policymakers are too remote from the businesses, economies and communities most affected by their decisions. Worse still, when they consult, they appear not to heed the results.

So how can the new First Minister win the confidence of the business community and get Team Scotland pulling together to create a country that works for everyone?

First, these regulations should be put on hold pending discussions between Holyrood and businesses to establish just where the dangers lie. Then they should be altered so that they work for both the environment and for businesses, economies and communities.

But how to avoid problems like this recurring? First, we need a new “active listening” culture in Holyrood – one that ensures that the voices of businesses really are listened to and fully taken onboard. And second, the Highlands mustn’t be disadvantaged by one-size-fits-all policies. “Island proofing” is designed to ensure that new policies and legislation take account of island economies and communities; the time is now right to extend this proofing to cover mainland Highland and Argyll.

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