Lochhead welcomes launch of post-independence economic blueprint

THE launch of the latest Scottish Government paper on the possible shape of a post-independence economy has been welcomed by Moray's MSP.

Building A New Scotland: A stronger economy with independence was launched by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon as a blueprint for an independent Scotland's economy.

Among the major points laid out in the document are: Re-joining the European Union (EU) to benefit from, and contribute to, the vast European Single Market; A redesigned energy market that aims to provide secure and reliable low cost energy; Retaining free movement of people, without a passport, across the UK and Ireland, with trade borders implemented smoothly; Using the pound sterling, until the time is right to move to a Scottish pound; Up to £20 billion in major infrastructure investment through the Building a New Scotland Fund; Using full powers over employment law to help improve pay and working conditions for people across Scotland; A migration policy tailored to Scotland’s needs and designed to boost the working population.

Moray’s SNP MSP welcomed the publication of the Scottish Government’s blueprint for Scotland’s economy after independence.

Mr Lochhead commented: “The UK economy is in decline – it is unstable, unsustainable, and unfair – and many people in Scotland are asking themselves if this is really the best we can do.

“With no real alternative on offer within the Westminster system, this paper sets out how an independent Scotland can build a strong economy, with fairness and wellbeing at its heart, and that works for everyone.

“The Scottish Government is ambitious for Scotland’s future and with the powers of independence we would be equipping ourselves with the tools we need to build a wealthier, fairer, greener country.

“I would encourage people to read the Scottish Government’s paper which outlines a positive vision for a better country for current and future generations, contrasting sharply with the financial and political instability and chaos of the UK.”

However, Moray Conservative MP Douglas Ross said the SNP’s economic case for independence is as “weak as ever” and failed to answer questions around issues such as currency, [pensions and the effects of a hard border.

He continued: “The SNP’s economic case for independence is as weak as ever.

"All the spin and bluster from Nicola Sturgeon cannot hide the fact that this latest economic white paper still fails to give any details on crucial questions on the economy in an independent Scotland.

“From the currency to pensions and the devastating effects of a hard border, Nicola Sturgeon has no answers for the people and businesses in Moray.

“They will be wondering what the point in publishing this paper alongside a self-indulgent press conference was when it still did not answer the questions that have always undermined the economic case for independence.

“It is time for Nicola Sturgeon to stop this relentless obsession with pursuing separation from the rest of the UK and focus on the real priorities of the people of Moray and across Scotland.

“Pushing another divisive referendum is the wrong priority at the worst possible time.

"Instead of trying to divide us all over again, Nicola Sturgeon should be supporting people and businesses in Moray through the cost-of-living crisis, restoring maternity services at Dr Gray’s and committing to fully dualling the A96.”