John Swinney believes a return to the European Union for Scotland is vital and wants a closer relationship between the UK and the EU.
GIVING people and families the security that comes from stable jobs with fair wages is central to a healthy economy and society. If the current cost of living crisis teaches us anything, it’s the importance of a strong labour market.
Today is often badged as the biggest day in Scottish education. More than 136,000 candidates who have completed SQA national qualifications, courses and awards will find out their results.
Over the next two days it will be my honour to represent the Scottish Government at the UK National Commemoration marking the Centenary of the Battle of Passchendaele, the name most commonly given to the Third Battle of Ypres during World War One. I will join representatives from the UK Government and the other devolved administrations, as well as 4000 descendants of those who fought in the battle, in paying my respects in acts of commemoration.
On my first full day as Education Secretary I was fortunate enough to visit my old school – Forrester High – in Edinburgh. The buildings in which I was taught are gone, replaced by a bright new campus, but it was evident that the encouraging ethos I experienced there persists to this day.
The Chancellor’s u-turn on the issue of cutting tax credits in this week’s budget was welcomed by all, and rightly so. It was a victory for those who had campaigned with such vigour against what would have been a devastating blow to so many who work hard to support and look after their families.
