Investment hits new high for Scotland

Inward investment in Scotland has hit a new high according to Parliamentary answers obtained by SNP MSP Alex Neil.

Mr Neil stated that far from Labour’s predictions of doom and gloom the figures for 2007-08 showed the SNP were delivering a higher level of success for Scotland.

Total inward investment projects from SDI reached a record 69 with a total value of £289.988 million in 2007-08.  Prior to this year the highest number of projects was 65 in 2003-04.

In additional 2638 high value jobs were created compared to only 1774 in the previous year.

Mr Neil said;

“The latest figures from SDI show that Scotland is succeeding.  With record numbers of investment projects and a record number of high value jobs coming to Scotland in the last year.

“Far from the doom and gloom predicted by the Labour party the SNP Government working with SDI has brought new investment to Scotland.

“Even independent analysis by Ernst and Young shows Scottish investment projects at a high.

“Importantly it’s not just the number of projects we are bringing to Scotland it’s the quality. 

“With a record number of high value jobs, those offering more than 20% of the average wage, and those targeted in research, design and development we are forging ahead in our ambitions to build an economy based on Scotland's strong skills and knowledge base.

“With unemployment at a record low and investment hitting a high in the last year the Scottish Government is working hard to deliver sustainable economic growth for Scotland”