The second milestone event in the same week for the Chambers network, which two days previously hosted the Chinese Ambassador to the UK, HE. Mr Liu Xiaoming at a dinner for 200 business people in Glasgow, was the Scottish Business Reception at the Scottish Parliament, held on 21st September, in partnership with Virgin Trains.

The Reception was sponsored by Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson MSP, and addressed by Derek Mackay MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Constitution.

In his speech to the gathering of business people and politicians in the Scottish Parliament, SCC President Tim Allan called for elected members at all levels to put business first and to use their powers to make Scotland a competitive place to do business.

Tim Allan addressed those at the Scottish Business Reception on Scotland’s businesses being the creators of our jobs and wealth. Collectively these businesses are the engine which grows our economy, pays for our essential public services and provides the opportunities for people to reach their potential. Tim also said that it was essential that all of Scotland’s politicians from across the political spectrum understand this and deliver policies that support business growth and competitiveness, and that they “must work hard to understand the issues facing businesses in their constituencies and regions, but with an active network of 26 local Chambers of Commerce across Scotland, our network is seeking to make that task an easy one.”

Ruth Davidson MSP congratulated the Chambers on the success of its China initiative and said that, after a period of successive elections and referenda, the three and a half years before the next Scottish Parliament election were an opportunity for business, led by the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to “put their heads above the parapet” and voice their concerns and needs to their elected representatives. “Politicians whatever their strip should do everything they can to help business.”

Ruth Davidson MSP conveyed her commitment to business and entrepreneurship, speaking to guests on the ability to help build and grow both, as this would help the country and help with opportunities for our young people.

Cabinet Secretary Derek Mackay MSP described the Chambers as “a force for good”, and his own government as “pro-business and pro-growth.” He said: “There is a great deal of agreement (with Chambers) around the skills agenda, around employment, around the fair work agenda, infrastructure investment, internationalisation and empowerment. We appreciate all of the great work you do nationally and locally in mentoring and supporting SMEs. Your work is absolutely invaluable.”

The Scottish Chambers of Commerce were encouraged by their words of support for the Chamber Network. There was a renewed mood of constructive engagement between business and government, firmly placing the economy at the centre. SCC will continue to work hard to play our part in making Scotland the best place to do business and all Governments will be measured by the impact of their decision making.

To register for the 2018 Scottish Business Reception, contact Rhona Middler on rmiddler@scottishchambers.org.uk