Labour will support Scottish businesses of all sizes, says Rachel Reeves

A Labour government would support Scottish businesses of every size, Rachel Reeves has said. 

The shadow chancellor, who will visit Scotland today, has said her party will work in partnership with businesses and “give them the tools to succeed”. 

The comments follow new analysis from Scottish Labour, which claims the number of registered businesses in Scotland has plummeted by over 6,000 since 2020. 

It says this has resulted in a loss of almost 44,000 jobs and a £670m dip in business turnover. 

In response, the party has pledged to improve economic growth and secure the highest sustained growth in the G7, while strengthening Brand Scotland to boost exports, attract investment and create jobs.  

It has also highlighted the importance of supporting key Scottish industries such as tech and renewables and reforming the devolved planning system and skills system to boost growth and create opportunities. 

Scottish Labour says these plans will help “unlock the full potential of every Scottish business”. 

Commenting on Labour’s plans to improve growth, Reeves said: “After 14 years of Tory economic chaos and decline, businesses across Scotland need stability and a partner in Westminster that can give them the tools to succeed. 

“With Labour, businesses in Scotland will have exactly that. Our plans will turn the page on Tory economic failure and kickstart economic growth right across the country, creating good jobs and the right conditions for investment. 

“Business cannot afford five more years of Tory chaos – Labour will ensure that businesses can get on and do what they do best while generating growth in the economy once again.” 

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: “For too long Scottish workers and businesses have been failed by Tory and SNP economic turmoil – but change is possible. 

“A Labour government will be pro-business and pro-worker, working in partnership with businesses to create wealth and deliver growth. 

“There is no shortage of opportunities in Scotland – we have an iconic international brand, immense natural resources, and there is talent and skills in every corner of the country. 

“Labour will work to unlock the full potential of every Scottish business – this is an opportunity for change that we cannot afford to miss. 

“Every vote for Scottish Labour is a vote to make sure we boot out this dysfunctional Tory government, back Scottish business and put Scotland’s voice at the heart of a Labour government.”