Investment strategy 'will create tens of thousands of jobs'

A new strategy to attract inward investment to Scotland is due to be published on Tuesday, with the Scottish Government claiming it will create tens of thousands of new jobs.

Trade minister Ivan McKee will set out the plan to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.

He said it will play an important part in driving Scotland’s economic recovery after the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr McKee said: “Scotland has been the UK’s top destination for inward investment outside London for the past seven years.

“Inward investors already complement our existing industrial base, providing 34% of our jobs and 77% of our exports, but we can do better.

“The new strategic approach I am announcing today will build on our strengths, create tens of thousands of jobs and spread the benefits of inward investment more evenly across the country.”

He added: “It aims to create high-value, skilled jobs in growing sectors and attract businesses that share our progressive, outward-looking values.

“With global economies still being impacted by coronavirus, and the end of the Brexit transition period looming, this plan is designed to play an important part in driving Scotland’s economic recovery.”