Swinney promises to create jobs and grow economy in programme for government

Scotland’s First Minister has pledged to create jobs and grow the economy in his programme for government.

John Swinney will open a Heineken office in Edinburgh on Monday, a day before he sets out his policy plans and priorities for the country.

The SNP leader said decisions announced on Tuesday will accelerate action to help businesses invest in Scotland, create jobs and grow the economy.

Mr Swinney brought forward the annual event, usually held after the summer, to “enable a full year of delivery” ahead of the 2026 Holyrood elections.

It will be his second programme for government as First Minister.

“Heineken has made a significant investment in Scotland, underlining our world-class reputation as a great place to invest and do business,” he said.

“There are also global challenges which are causing real anxiety for businesses in Scotland that require an immediate response.

“That is why I have brought forward my programme for government, which will accelerate action to create jobs, drive investment and grow Scotland’s economy.

“Growing our economy is central to improving people’s living standards, investing in public services, eradicating child poverty and tackling the climate emergency.

Scottish Labour criticised the SNP’s record on the economy, which it said was “low-growth, low-pay”.

Deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “John Swinney is desperately trying to rewrite history and pretend his party hasn’t been running things for nearly two decades.

“From the crisis in our NHS to our low-growth, low-pay economy, the SNP cannot fix the problems it created.

“The truth is, if the SNP had the answers to Scotland’s problems we would have seen them by now.

“Scotland’s best days do lie ahead of us but this tired SNP government can only deliver more of the same.

“Only Scottish Labour can deliver the change in direction our country needs.”