South Scotland MSP Emma Harper has welcomed the Scottish Government budget, which she said will ensure a strong start for the Scottish National Investment Bank, and its mission to drive the transition to a net zero economy and to support and encourage economic growth across Dumfries and Galloway.
The 2020/21 Budget, set out by Finance Minister Kate Forbes, will provide £220 million of fresh seed funding to help Scotland meets its ambitious climate change targets, by financing companies and projects across Dumfries and Galloway which are working towards the achievement of net-zero emissions.
The Scottish National Investment Bank is on track to become fully operational during 2020 following parliamentary approval at Stage 3 of the Bill in January 2020.
Commenting, Ms Harper said:
“The Scottish National Investment Bank is the next in a series of measures from the Scottish Government – such as the South Scotland Enterprise Agency – which will directly benefit Dumfries and Galloway. The bank has the potential to transform communities across the region and will help us reach our world-leading climate targets, and ensure Scotland’s economy is fit for the future, whilst providing real terms funding to local groups and businesses.
“Operating within a core set of principles, the bank will increase investment in local businesses and community projects across our region that are looking to play their part in tackling the climate crisis and to reach net-zero emissions.
“We know that small businesses are the backbone of our communities in Dumfries and Galloway, and I ask that opposition MSPs get behind these plans to support business, boost our local economy, and drive Scotland towards a low carbon economy.”
