Current status: Answered by Tom Arthur on 14 July 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what role the Cabinet Secretary for the economy will have in (a) the delivery of apprenticeships, (b) skills development and (c) in increasing Scotland’s businesses’ innovation activity.
A skilled workforce is essential for achieving economic growth, through supporting increased productivity and innovation, and positioning Scotland to benefit from inward investment opportunities, our energy transition and future technological advances. Equipping people with the skills they need to engage in a changing labour market also helps more people enter or remain in good jobs, contributing to higher incomes and reduced economic inactivity.
Therefore, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport will have a pivotal role in the delivery of apprenticeships and skills and workforce development, working across government with other portfolios. This collaborative approach aims to build a responsive skills system that meets the needs of Scotland’s economy, its businesses and its workers.