As the year 2024 comes to a close, Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray has reflected on the significant progress made and outlined ambitious plans for 2025.
Murray, who was appointed to his role in July 2024, highlighted the UK Government’s commitment to delivering change and renewal in Scotland. The Prime Minister’s Plan for Change has been a focal point, with a emphasis on fixing the economy, promoting green energy, and tackling poverty.
The Scottish Secretaries Message
The New Year message comes at a pivotal time, following a year marked by substantial policy initiatives and collaborative efforts between the UK and Scottish Governments.
Since the July election, the government has made notable strides in various sectors, including energy, workers’ rights, and economic growth.
Murray detailed several important developments, including the launch of legislation for Great British Energy, which aims to position Scotland at the forefront of the green energy revolution.
Grangemouth refinery
A £100 million package has been allocated to support workers at the Grangemouth refinery and boost the local economy in Falkirk and Grangemouth.
Additionally, the government has introduced significant upgrades to workers’ rights, increased the minimum wage, uprated benefits, and ensured pension increases through the triple lock.
The Child Poverty Taskforce is also working tirelessly to address child poverty, focusing on housing, job security, health, and education.
Global Growth and Support
The Scotland Office has also been instrumental in promoting ‘Brand Scotland’ globally, highlighting Scotland’s world-class products and services. Murray’s efforts have included visits to Norway and South East Asia to enhance Scotland’s international presence.
The reset in the relationship between the UK and Scottish Governments has facilitated constructive joint working, exemplified by the successful relocation of 19 female Afghan medical students to Scottish universities.
Central Impact
The initiatives outlined by Murray are expected to have far-reaching impacts on various aspects of Scottish society.
- Improved energy security and a transition to green technologies through projects like GB Energy and Project Willow
- Implementation of the Skills Passport to help oil and gas workers transition to new green technologies by mid-2025
- A record £47.7 billion settlement for the Scottish Government and £1.4 billion for local growth projects across Scotland
Official Response
“We are determined to make life better for everyone living in Scotland. The Chancellor’s Budget delivered an extra £4.9 billion for the Scottish Government, meaning a record £47.7 billion settlement for them next year, as well as £1.4 billion for local growth projects across Scotland – projects which will help create jobs and improve local communities.”
Ian Murray, Secretary of State for Scotland at the UK Government
Murray’s statement underscores the government’s commitment to economic growth and community development. Additionally, the significant funding allocations are designed to drive investment, create jobs, and enhance local communities.
Current Status
- The UK Government has published the biggest upgrade of workers’ rights in a generation
- A £100 million package is in place to support workers at the Grangemouth refinery
- The Child Poverty Taskforce is set to publish a comprehensive strategy in the Spring of 2025
Regional Effects
The local impact of these initiatives is substantial, particularly in areas like Falkirk and Grangemouth. The support package for the Grangemouth refinery is expected to boost the local economy and create jobs.
“The support for the Grangemouth refinery and the surrounding area is a welcome boost to our local economy and will help in creating new job opportunities.”
said a Local Councilor at Falkirk Council.
Scots Honoured in the New Years List
Ian Murray said:
I congratulate all Scots the length and breadth of the country who have been honoured by His Majesty the King in his New Year Honours list.
The Glasgow-born head of MI5, Ken McCallum, receives a Knighthood for his professionalism and dedication in keeping the country safe in such difficult times. We all thank him for this.
Scotland’s vibrant arts and media scene is celebrated with a Damehood for painter and printmaker Barbara Rae, and a MBE for broadcasting stalwart and national treasure Jackie Bird.
Football heroes David Moyes and Alan Hansen are rewarded for their contributions to the sport. Duncan Scott, Britain’s most decorated Olympic swimmer, is recognised, as are Paralympic athletes swimmer Stephen Clegg and archer Nathan MacQueen.
Many of the unsung heroes in our communities are on the list, including those working to tackle poverty and disadvantage. There are far too many to mention everyone by name, but I want to single out the amazing work of Sascha Macleod at the BIG Project in Edinburgh, and Natasha Gilmour of the Extra Help Unit at Citizens Advice Scotland.
To all of the Scottish Honours recipients I say – congratulations, and thank you for all that you do.
The Takeaway
