First Minister John Swinney has unveiled a bold and forward-looking vision to prepare Scotland for the future amid global economic uncertainty. In a press conference at Bute House on 14 April 2025, he announced that the Scottish Government will bring forward its Programme for Government, to be presented to the Scottish Parliament on 6 May 2025. This accelerated legislative agenda aims to build resilience and secure a prosperous future for Scotland by focusing on four core priorities: eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling the climate emergency, and ensuring high-quality, sustainable public services.
Swinney acknowledged the challenging times Scotland faces, describing the current period as “a time of great uncertainty” for families and businesses alike. He reflected on nearly two decades of economic and social challenges—from the financial crisis and austerity to Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the energy price shocks following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Each crisis has tested Scotland’s strength, but none has defeated it. Now, as new economic headwinds blow strongly across the Atlantic, the government’s response must be both immediate and measured.
The Programme for Government will be “laser-focused on delivery,” Swinney said, outlining practical steps to strengthen Scotland’s economy and protect jobs. Central to this approach is collaboration. The First Minister announced plans to convene a roundtable on 16 April 2025 with key partners from the business community and trade unions. This forum will map out the actions needed not only within Scotland but also across the UK, ensuring that the devolved nations’ needs are fully represented in UK-wide decision-making.
Swinney emphasised the importance of partnership and unity in facing these challenges. “A government that is bringing people together, so that our response to the challenges we face is rooted in a Scotland that is united, prepared and determined,” he said. His vision is of a Scotland that emerges from the storm stronger, wealthier, fairer, and more resilient.
This proactive stance reflects a deep commitment to fighting Scotland’s corner on the national and international stage. Swinney made clear his intention to press the UK Government to do more to protect Scotland’s economic interests, signaling a readiness to advocate vigorously for the country’s needs.
The Programme for Government will set out a comprehensive plan to tackle child poverty, a persistent and urgent issue. By focusing on economic growth alongside social justice, the government aims to create a Scotland where every child has the opportunity to thrive. This dual focus on economic and social priorities underscores a holistic approach to building a sustainable future.
Addressing the climate emergency is another pillar of the government’s agenda. Scotland’s commitment to environmental sustainability will be woven throughout the legislative programme, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of the planet. This approach aligns with global efforts to combat climate change while positioning Scotland as a leader in green innovation and sustainable development.
Ensuring high-quality and sustainable public services rounds out the government’s priorities. Swinney recognises that strong public services are the backbone of a resilient society, especially in times of uncertainty. The Programme for Government will outline measures to maintain and improve these services, safeguarding the wellbeing of all Scots.
The upcoming roundtable with business and trade union leaders is a critical step in shaping the government’s response. By engaging directly with those who drive Scotland’s economy and represent its workforce, the government aims to craft policies that are both practical and inclusive. This collaborative approach is designed to build consensus and ensure that the Programme for Government reflects the realities on the ground.
First Minister Swinney’s message is clear: Scotland is ready to face the future with confidence and determination. His government is committed to delivering tangible results that will strengthen the economy, protect vulnerable communities, and safeguard the environment. In doing so, Scotland will not only weather the current storm but emerge stronger and more united.
As the Programme for Government is finalised and presented in May, all eyes will be on how these ambitious plans translate into action. The government’s focus on resilience, partnership, and practical solutions offers a roadmap for navigating uncertainty and building a brighter future for Scotland.
In these challenging times, the Scottish Government’s proactive and inclusive approach stands as a beacon of hope and determination. By fighting Scotland’s corner and bringing people together, First Minister John Swinney is charting a course toward a future where Scotland’s economy thrives, its communities flourish, and its environment is protected for generations to come.
