at times hostility they faced and at times hostility they faced due to their background. they overcame those barriers, and provided a way for their children and their grandchildren for which i will forever be grateful. it is my responsibility as first minister to ensure every family in scotland has that equality of opportunity, regardless of their background or where they live in scotland. i am optimistic we can achieve that equality of opportunity, and the three missions i have set out today will determine the creditors of the government that i lead for the rest of this parliamentary session and help us to achieve that. together, we will be focused on the delivery, we will be focused on the delivery, we will be focused on the delivery, we will ensure that we have an affordable ambitious measures in place which protect our environment, which protect business prosperity, they improve people's well—being, and they reduce poverty. they will ensure that the actions we take over the next three years stand scotland in good stead for the next decade to come, they will use our present very significant strengths to deliver a fresh start for scotland. applause.

thank you. the first minister will now take — thank you. the first minister will now take questions on the issues raised _ now take questions on the issues raised in — now take questions on the issues raised in his statement. i intend to allow— raised in his statement. i intend to allow around 40 minutes for questions, after which time we will move _ questions, after which time we will move onto — questions, after which time we will move onto the next item of business, and it_ move onto the next item of business, and it would _ move onto the next item of business, and it would be helpful if those numbers — and it would be helpful if those numbers who wish to ask a question would _ numbers who wish to ask a question would press — numbers who wish to ask a question would press the request to speak button, _ would press the request to speak button, and i: meghan gallacher. presiding — button, and i: meghan gallacher. presiding officer, the first minisler— presiding officer, the first minister makes _ presiding officer, the first minister makes this - presiding officer, the first - minister makes this statement presiding officer, the first _ minister makes this statement today as scandal— minister makes this statement today as scandal continues— minister makes this statement today as scandal continues to _ minister makes this statement today as scandal continues to engulf- minister makes this statement today as scandal continues to engulf his i as scandal continues to engulf his party _ as scandal continues to engulf his party. the — as scandal continues to engulf his party. the w— as scandal continues to engulf his party. the snp is— as scandal continues to engulf his party. the snp is in— as scandal continues to engulf his party. the snp is in total- as scandal continues to engulf his i party. the snp is in total meltdown. it's party. the snp is in total meltdown. its former— party. the snp is in total meltdown. it's former chief— party. the snp is in total meltdown. it's former chief executive _ party. the snp is in total meltdown. it's former chief executive and - party. the snp is in total meltdown. it's former chief executive and now i it's former chief executive and now its current — it's former chief executive and now its current treasurer— it's former chief executive and now its current treasurer have - it's former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been - its current treasurer have been arrested — its current treasurer have been arrested amid _ its current treasurer have been arrested amid a _ its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police - its current treasurer have been - arrested amid a police investigation into the _ arrested amid a police investigation into the party's— arrested amid a police investigation into the party's finances. _ arrested amid a police investigation into the party's finances. and - into the party's finances. and leaked — into the party's finances. and leaked footage _ into the party's finances. and leaked footage has _ into the party's finances. and leaked footage has shown - into the party's finances. and - leaked footage has shown sturgeon are trying _ leaked footage has shown sturgeon are trying shut _ leaked footage has shown sturgeon are trying shut down _ leaked footage has shown sturgeon are trying shut down scrutiny- leaked footage has shown sturgeon are trying shut down scrutiny merel are trying shut down scrutiny mere months _ are trying shut down scrutiny mere months before _ are trying shut down scrutiny mere months before the _ are trying shut down scrutiny mere months before the investigation. months before the investigation began — months before the investigation began yet _ months before the investigation began. yet humza _ months before the investigation began. yet humza yousaf- months before the investigation began. yet humza yousaf is - months before the investigationl began. yet humza yousaf is also indebted — began. yet humza yousaf is also indebted to _ began. yet humza yousaf is also indebted to his— began. yet humza yousaf is also indebted to his former— began. yet humza yousaf is also indebted to his former mentor. began. yet humza yousaf is also indebted to his former mentor isi indebted to his former mentor is that he _ indebted to his former mentor is that he will— indebted to his former mentor is that he will not _ indebted to his former mentor is that he will not do _ indebted to his former mentor is that he will not do the _ indebted to his former mentor is that he will not do the right - indebted to his former mentor is| that he will not do the right thing

and suspend _ that he will not do the right thing and suspend them _ that he will not do the right thing and suspend them while - that he will not do the right thing and suspend them while the - and suspend them while the investigation _ and suspend them while the investigation is _ and suspend them while the investigation is ongoing. - and suspend them while the investigation is ongoing. it i and suspend them while thei investigation is ongoing. it is and suspend them while the - investigation is ongoing. it is past time _ investigation is ongoing. it is past time that— investigation is ongoing. it is past time that humza _ investigation is ongoing. it is past time that humza yousaf - investigation is ongoing. it is past time that humza yousaf tackled l investigation is ongoing. it is past l time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal— time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal head — time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal head on _ time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal head on and _ time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal head on and proved - time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal head on and proved to - time that humza yousaf tackled the scandal head on and proved to be . scandal head on and proved to be scottish— scandal head on and proved to be scottish public— scandal head on and proved to be scottish public that _ scandal head on and proved to be scottish public that he _ scandal head on and proved to be scottish public that he has - scandal head on and proved to be scottish public that he has his- scandal head on and proved to be | scottish public that he has his own man: _ scottish public that he has his own man. instead _ scottish public that he has his own man, instead of— scottish public that he has his own man, instead of defending - scottish public that he has his own man, instead of defending and - man, instead of defending and deflecting _ man, instead of defending and deflecting from _ man, instead of defending and deflecting from his _ man, instead of defending and . deflecting from his predecessor's tarnished — deflecting from his predecessor's tarnished legacy. _ deflecting from his predecessor's tarnished legacy. turning - deflecting from his predecessor's tarnished legacy. turning to - deflecting from his predecessor's tarnished legacy. turning to the i tarnished legacy. turning to the substance — tarnished legacy. turning to the substance of— tarnished legacy. turning to the substance of humza _ tarnished legacy. turning to the substance of humza yousaf's i substance of humza yousaf's statement, _ substance of humza yousaf's statement, we _ substance of humza yousaf's statement, we welcome - substance of humza yousaf's statement, we welcome the i substance of humza yousaf's - statement, we welcome the decision to u-turn _ statement, we welcome the decision to u-turn on — statement, we welcome the decision to u-turn on 13— statement, we welcome the decision to u—turn on 13 years _ statement, we welcome the decision to u—turn on 13 years of— statement, we welcome the decision to u—turn on 13 years of snp - to u—turn on 13 years of snp education _ to u—turn on 13 years of snp education policy— to u—turn on 13 years of snp education policy and - to u—turn on 13 years of snp education policy and rejoin l to u—turn on 13 years of snp l education policy and rejoin the international— education policy and rejoin the international school _ education policy and rejoin the international school league - education policy and rejoin the - international school league tables. we hope _ international school league tables. we hope that— international school league tables. we hope that this _ international school league tables. we hope that this is _ international school league tables. we hope that this isjust_ international school league tables. we hope that this is just the - we hope that this is just the beginning _ we hope that this is just the beginning of— we hope that this is just the beginning of a _ we hope that this is just the beginning of a wholesale - beginning of a wholesale re—evaluation _ beginning of a wholesale re—evaluation of- beginning of a wholesale re—evaluation of how- beginning of a wholesale| re—evaluation of how this beginning of a wholesale _ re—evaluation of how this government has devalued — re—evaluation of how this government has devalued scottish _ re—evaluation of how this government has devalued scottish education - re—evaluation of how this government has devalued scottish education overl has devalued scottish education over its time _ has devalued scottish education over its time in _ has devalued scottish education over its time in office. _ has devalued scottish education over its time in office. yet— has devalued scottish education over its time in office. yet as _ has devalued scottish education over its time in office. yet as a _ has devalued scottish education over its time in office. yet as a whole, - its time in office. yet as a whole, humza _ its time in office. yet as a whole, humza yousaf's— its time in office. yet as a whole, humza yousaf's proposals - its time in office. yet as a whole, humza yousaf's proposals and i its time in office. yet as a whole, humza yousaf's proposals and do nothing _ humza yousaf's proposals and do nothing to— humza yousaf's proposals and do nothing to dispel— humza yousaf's proposals and do nothing to dispel the _ humza yousaf's proposals and do nothing to dispel the notion - humza yousaf's proposals and do nothing to dispel the notion thati humza yousaf's proposals and do . nothing to dispel the notion that he is a continuity— nothing to dispel the notion that he is a continuity first _ nothing to dispel the notion that he is a continuity first minister- is a continuity first minister are leading — is a continuity first minister are leading a — is a continuity first minister are leading a continuity _ is a continuity first minister are i leading a continuity government. tinkering — leading a continuity government. tinkering around _ leading a continuity government. tinkering around with _ leading a continuity government. tinkering around with nicola - tinkering around with nicola sturgeon's _ tinkering around with nicola sturgeon's failing _ tinkering around with nicola sturgeon's failing policy- tinkering around with nicola i sturgeon's failing policy agenda tinkering around with nicola - sturgeon's failing policy agenda and continuing _ sturgeon's failing policy agenda and continuing to — sturgeon's failing policy agenda and continuing to be _ sturgeon's failing policy agenda and continuing to be led _ sturgeon's failing policy agenda and continuing to be led by— sturgeon's failing policy agenda and continuing to be led by the - continuing to be led by the extremist _ continuing to be led by the extremist greens- continuing to be led by the extremist greens instead i continuing to be led by thel extremist greens instead of delivering _ extremist greens instead of delivering the _ extremist greens instead of delivering the fresh - extremist greens instead of. delivering the fresh leadership

scotland — delivering the fresh leadership scotland needs— delivering the fresh leadership scotland needs right _ delivering the fresh leadership scotland needs right now, - delivering the fresh leadership scotland needs right now, andj delivering the fresh leadership l scotland needs right now, and it will dismay— scotland needs right now, and it will dismay the _ scotland needs right now, and it will dismay the majority - scotland needs right now, and it will dismay the majority of - scotland needs right now, and it will dismay the majority of the l will dismay the majority of the scottish— will dismay the majority of the scottish public— will dismay the majority of the scottish public that _ will dismay the majority of the i scottish public that campaigning will dismay the majority of the - scottish public that campaigning for independence — scottish public that campaigning for independence as _ scottish public that campaigning for independence as the _ scottish public that campaigning for independence as the top _ scottish public that campaigning for independence as the top priority- scottish public that campaigning for independence as the top priority for humza _ independence as the top priority for humza yousaf~ _ independence as the top priority for humza yousaf. at _ independence as the top priority for humza yousaf. at a _ independence as the top priority for humza yousaf. at a time _ independence as the top priority for humza yousaf. at a time when - humza yousaf. at a time when scotland — humza yousaf. at a time when scotland needs— humza yousaf. at a time when scotland needs national- humza yousaf. at a time when - scotland needs national leadership focused _ scotland needs national leadership focused on — scotland needs national leadership focused on tackling _ scotland needs national leadership focused on tackling the _ scotland needs national leadership focused on tackling the big - focused on tackling the big challenges _ focused on tackling the big challenges we _ focused on tackling the big challenges we all- focused on tackling the big challenges we all face, - focused on tackling the big challenges we all face, a l focused on tackling the big - challenges we all face, a global cost of— challenges we all face, a global cost of living _ challenges we all face, a global cost of living crisis, _ challenges we all face, a global cost of living crisis, an - challenges we all face, a global cost of living crisis, an nhs - challenges we all face, a global cost of living crisis, an nhs onl challenges we all face, a global. cost of living crisis, an nhs on its knees _ cost of living crisis, an nhs on its knees thanks _ cost of living crisis, an nhs on its knees thanks to _ cost of living crisis, an nhs on its knees thanks to this _ cost of living crisis, an nhs on its knees thanks to this first - cost of living crisis, an nhs on its| knees thanks to this first minister and a _ knees thanks to this first minister and a sluggish— knees thanks to this first minister and a sluggish economy, - knees thanks to this first minister and a sluggish economy, we - knees thanks to this first minister and a sluggish economy, we have| knees thanks to this first minister. and a sluggish economy, we have a nationalist — and a sluggish economy, we have a nationalist leader— and a sluggish economy, we have a nationalist leader continuing - and a sluggish economy, we have a nationalist leader continuing to - nationalist leader continuing to appeal— nationalist leader continuing to appeal to — nationalist leader continuing to appeal to has _ nationalist leader continuing to appeal to has hopelessly- nationalist leader continuing to. appeal to has hopelessly divided partv _ appeal to has hopelessly divided partv so— appeal to has hopelessly divided party. so can _ appeal to has hopelessly divided party. so can t _ appeal to has hopelessly divided party. so can i ask— appeal to has hopelessly divided party. so can i ask the _ appeal to has hopelessly divided party. so can i ask the first- party. so can i ask the first minister— party. so can i ask the first minister on _ party. so can i ask the first minister on the _ party. so can i ask the first. minister on the commitments party. so can i ask the first- minister on the commitments he makes in his threadbare _ minister on the commitments he makes in his threadbare document _ minister on the commitments he makes in his threadbare document whether - in his threadbare document whether anyone _ in his threadbare document whether anyone seriously— in his threadbare document whether anyone seriously believes _ in his threadbare document whether anyone seriously believes that - in his threadbare document whether anyone seriously believes that this i anyone seriously believes that this government— anyone seriously believes that this government will— anyone seriously believes that this government will close _ anyone seriously believes that this government will close the - anyone seriously believes that this i government will close the attainment -ap government will close the attainment gap by— government will close the attainment gap by the _ government will close the attainment gap bvthe end— government will close the attainment gap by the end of— government will close the attainment gap by the end of this _ government will close the attainment gap by the end of this parliament? i gap by the end of this parliament? secondly, — gap by the end of this parliament? secondly, on— gap by the end of this parliament? secondly, on the _ gap by the end of this parliament? secondly, on the deposit - gap by the end of this parliament? secondly, on the deposit return. secondly, on the deposit return scheme, — secondly, on the deposit return scheme, we _ secondly, on the deposit return scheme, we welcome _ secondly, on the deposit return scheme, we welcome the - secondly, on the deposit returni scheme, we welcome the delay, secondly, on the deposit return- scheme, we welcome the delay, which is a human— scheme, we welcome the delay, which is a human agent— scheme, we welcome the delay, which is a human agent for _ scheme, we welcome the delay, which is a human agent for the _ scheme, we welcome the delay, which is a human agent for the green - is a human agent for the green minister— is a human agent for the green minister lorna _ is a human agent for the green minister lorna slater, - is a human agent for the green minister lorna slater, but - is a human agent for the green minister lorna slater, but canl is a human agent for the green i minister lorna slater, but can the first _ minister lorna slater, but can the first minister _ minister lorna slater, but can the first minister promised _ minister lorna slater, but can the first minister promised the - minister lorna slater, but can the l first minister promised the scottish government— first minister promised the scottish government will— first minister promised the scottish government will engage _ first minister promised the scottish government will engage with - government will engage with businesses _ government will engage with businesses on _ government will engage with businesses on the _ government will engage with businesses on the deposit i government will engage with - businesses on the deposit return scheme, — businesses on the deposit return scheme, which _ businesses on the deposit return scheme, which they— businesses on the deposit return scheme, which they have - businesses on the deposit return scheme, which they have failed i businesses on the deposit return. scheme, which they have failed to businesses on the deposit return - scheme, which they have failed to do so far? _ scheme, which they have failed to do so far? -- _

scheme, which they have failed to do so far? -- a — scheme, which they have failed to do so far? —— a humiliation _ scheme, which they have failed to do so far? —— a humiliation for- scheme, which they have failed to do so far? —— a humiliation for the - so far? —— a humiliation for the green — so far? —— a humiliation for the green minister— so far? —— a humiliation for the green minister lorna _ so far? —— a humiliation for the green minister lorna slater. i so far? —— a humiliation for the i green minister lorna slater. and so far? —— a humiliation for the - green minister lorna slater. and can be first _ green minister lorna slater. and can be first minister— green minister lorna slater. and can be first minister tell— green minister lorna slater. and can be first minister tell me _ green minister lorna slater. and can be first minister tell me whether- be first minister tell me whether the snp — be first minister tell me whether the snp remains _ be first minister tell me whether the snp remains in _ be first minister tell me whether the snp remains in a _ be first minister tell me whether the snp remains in a debt- be first minister tell me whether the snp remains in a debt to - be first minister tell me whether. the snp remains in a debt to peter murrell, _ the snp remains in a debt to peter murrell, and — the snp remains in a debt to peter murrell, and when— the snp remains in a debt to peter murrell, and when it _ the snp remains in a debt to peter murrell, and when it intends - the snp remains in a debt to peter murrell, and when it intends to- murrell, and when it intends to repay— murrell, and when it intends to repay that _ murrell, and when it intends to repay that loan? _ murrell, and when it intends to repay that loan?— murrell, and when it intends to repay that loan? first minister, i would ask you — repay that loan? first minister, i would ask you to _ repay that loan? first minister, i would ask you to respond - repay that loan? first minister, i would ask you to respond to - would ask you to respond to the questions — would ask you to respond to the question— would ask you to respond to the cuestions. . . ~ . , , , questions. can i talk about issues which i think— questions. can i talk about issues which i think are _ questions. can i talk about issues which i think are of _ questions. can i talk about issues which i think are of importance i questions. can i talk about issuesl which i think are of importance the people of scotland. but i would say to meghan gallacher as it is awfully brave to talk about a global cost of living crisis. we are doing with a tory westminster cost of living crisis. applause. that is why the most recent imf projections project in the uk government is pretty fact —— in fact an outlier, the lowest projected growth of any g7 economy, that is it only cost of living crisis, a union dividend scotland definitely does

not need, and you should own that rather than trying to deflect away from it. what i would say is we have listened to scottish business, and lorna slater will give further updates to the package of measures in the drs scheme. but let's be honest, presiding officer, all of us talk about the need to tackle the climate emergency... first minister, excuse me — climate emergency... first minister, excuse me a — climate emergency... first minister, excuse me a second. _ climate emergency... first minister, excuse me a second. we _ climate emergency... first minister, excuse me a second. we need - climate emergency... first minister, excuse me a second. we need to - climate emergency... first minister, i excuse me a second. we need to hear the first _ excuse me a second. we need to hear the first minister response to the questions — the first minister response to the questions. we the first minister response to the cuestions. ~ . ., , ., ., questions. we are the ones who not onl talk questions. we are the ones who not only talk the — questions. we are the ones who not only talk the talk, _ questions. we are the ones who not only talk the talk, we _ questions. we are the ones who not only talk the talk, we are _ questions. we are the ones who not only talk the talk, we are prepared l only talk the talk, we are prepared to walk the walk, and when it comes to walk the walk, and when it comes to the conservatives, every time we bring forward a measure on the climate emergency, they are the first ones to oppose it, time and time again. so they are not serious, presiding officer. they are not serious at all about tackling the climate emergency. so we will continue to talk, and of course engage with notjust business, but would the scottish public about the

priorities that they have. may i say to meghan gallacher? it is brave, some may use another word for it, when it comes to talking about propriety. your prime minister, your deputy prime minister, and the former prime minister are all under investigation by the standards commission. so, yes, while we face challenges, while we absolutely face challenges, while we absolutely face challenges, i would challenges, while we absolutely face challenges, iwould rather challenges, while we absolutely face challenges, i would rather be standing here with the opportunity to deliver for the people of scotland rather than languishing in the opposition like meghan gallacher and the scottish tories.— and the scottish tories. before i call the next _ and the scottish tories. before i call the next msp, _ and the scottish tories. before i call the next msp, we _ and the scottish tories. before i call the next msp, we continue l and the scottish tories. before i l call the next msp, we continue to make _ call the next msp, we continue to make such — call the next msp, we continue to make such a nice, we cannot hear any of the _ make such a nice, we cannot hear any of the answers, and i think that would _ of the answers, and i think that would be — of the answers, and i think that would be unfortunate. i call anas sarwah _ would be unfortunate. i call anas sarwar. ., . ., . , sarwar. some of the announcements toda are sarwar. some of the announcements today are welcome, _ sarwar. some of the announcements today are welcome, some _ sarwar. some of the announcements today are welcome, some of- sarwar. some of the announcements today are welcome, some of them i sarwar. some of the announcements. today are welcome, some of them are undoubtedly— today are welcome, some of them are undoubtedly well—intentioned, -

today are welcome, some of them are undoubtedly well—intentioned, but - undoubtedly well—intentioned, but much _ undoubtedly well—intentioned, but much of— undoubtedly well—intentioned, but much of it — undoubtedly well—intentioned, but much of it is — undoubtedly well—intentioned, but much of it is rehashed _ undoubtedly well—intentioned, but much of it is rehashed promises. undoubtedly well—intentioned, but i much of it is rehashed promises from the past. _ much of it is rehashed promises from the past. but — much of it is rehashed promises from the past, but what _ much of it is rehashed promises from the past, but what humza _ much of it is rehashed promises from the past, but what humza yousaf- the past, but what humza yousaf cannot _ the past, but what humza yousaf cannot escape _ the past, but what humza yousaf cannot escape from _ the past, but what humza yousaf cannot escape from as _ the past, but what humza yousaf cannot escape from as he - the past, but what humza yousaf cannot escape from as he is - the past, but what humza yousaf cannot escape from as he is not i the past, but what humza yousaf. cannot escape from as he is not now running _ cannot escape from as he is not now running a _ cannot escape from as he is not now running a functioning _ cannot escape from as he is not now running a functioning government. i running a functioning government. this is_ running a functioning government. this is an — running a functioning government. this is an snp _ running a functioning government. this is an snp mired _ running a functioning government. this is an snp mired in— running a functioning government. this is an snp mired in scandal, i this is an snp mired in scandal, division, — this is an snp mired in scandal, division, talking _ this is an snp mired in scandal, division, talking to _ this is an snp mired in scandal, division, talking to themselves. division, talking to themselves attout— division, talking to themselves about themselves, _ division, talking to themselves about themselves, and - division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the i division, talking to themselves l about themselves, and the crisis that how— about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs _ about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the _ about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the snp - about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the snp is i about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the snp is noti about themselves, and the crisis i that now engulfs the snp is notjust an indication — that now engulfs the snp is notjust an indication of— that now engulfs the snp is notjust an indication of how— that now engulfs the snp is notjust an indication of how the _ that now engulfs the snp is notjusti an indication of how the government their party. — an indication of how the government their party. but— an indication of how the government their party, but also _ an indication of how the government their party, but also how _ an indication of how the government their party, but also how they- their party, but also how they govern— their party, but also how they govern our— their party, but also how they govern our country. _ their party, but also how they govern our country. —— - their party, but also how they govern our country. —— how. their party, but also how they. govern our country. —— how they govern _ govern our country. —— how they govern their— govern our country. —— how they govern their party. _ govern our country. —— how they govern their party. a _ govern our country. —— how they govern their party. a 16 - govern our country. —— how they govern their party. a 16 year- govern their party. a 16 year culture — govern their party. a 16 year culture of— govern their party. a 16 year culture of command - govern their party. a 16 year culture of command and i govern their party. a 16 year- culture of command and control, of finahciat_ culture of command and control, of financial mismanagement, - culture of command and control, of financial mismanagement, and i financial mismanagement, and financial— financial mismanagement, and financial transparency - financial mismanagement, and financial transparency meaning secrecy— financial transparency meaning secrecy and _ financial transparency meaning secrecy and cover—ups, - financial transparency meaning secrecy and cover—ups, often i financial transparency meaning i secrecy and cover—ups, often with devastating — secrecy and cover—ups, often with devastating consequences. - secrecy and cover—ups, often with devastating consequences. and i secrecy and cover—ups, often with| devastating consequences. and no amount— devastating consequences. and no amount of— devastating consequences. and no amount of spin— devastating consequences. and no amount of spin or— devastating consequences. and no amount of spin or the _ devastating consequences. and no amount of spin or the pretense i devastating consequences. and no amount of spin or the pretense ofl devastating consequences. and nol amount of spin or the pretense of a reset— amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or— amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or a _ amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or a fresh _ amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or a fresh start _ amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or a fresh start is _ amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or a fresh start is going - amount of spin or the pretense of a reset or a fresh start is going to- reset or a fresh start is going to hide _ reset or a fresh start is going to hide what — reset or a fresh start is going to hide what is _ reset or a fresh start is going to hide what is now— reset or a fresh start is going to hide what is now becoming i reset or a fresh start is going to| hide what is now becoming clear to the public— hide what is now becoming clear to the public every— hide what is now becoming clear to the public every single _ hide what is now becoming clear to the public every single day. - hide what is now becoming clear to the public every single day. our. the public every single day. our country— the public every single day. our country is — the public every single day. our country is now— the public every single day. our country is now crying _ the public every single day. our country is now crying out - country is now crying out for leadership, _ country is now crying out for leadership, for— country is now crying out for leadership, for hope, - country is now crying out for leadership, for hope, for. country is now crying out for. leadership, for hope, for new country is now crying out for- leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a _ leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a new— leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a new vision— leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a new vision to _ leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a new vision to consult - leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a new vision to consult the i leadership, for hope, for new ideas, and a new vision to consult the twini and a new vision to consult the twin crises _ and a new vision to consult the twin crises our— and a new vision to consult the twin crises our nation _ and a new vision to consult the twin crises our nation faces. _ and a new vision to consult the twin crises our nation faces. the - and a new vision to consult the twin crises our nation faces. the cost i and a new vision to consult the twin crises our nation faces. the cost ofl crises our nation faces. the cost of living _ crises our nation faces. the cost of

living crisis. — crises our nation faces. the cost of living crisis, with _ crises our nation faces. the cost of living crisis, with families - living crisis, with families struggling _ living crisis, with families struggling to _ living crisis, with families struggling to pay - living crisis, with families struggling to pay the i living crisis, with familiesl struggling to pay the bills, living crisis, with families i struggling to pay the bills, and living crisis, with families - struggling to pay the bills, and an nhs crisis — struggling to pay the bills, and an nhs crisis with _ struggling to pay the bills, and an nhs crisis with patients _ struggling to pay the bills, and an| nhs crisis with patients struggling to access — nhs crisis with patients struggling to access life—saving _ nhs crisis with patients struggling to access life—saving treatment. . to access life—saving treatment. continuity— to access life—saving treatment. continuity will— to access life—saving treatment. continuity will not _ to access life—saving treatment. continuity will not cut _ to access life—saving treatment. continuity will not cut it. - continuity will not cut it. incompetence _ continuity will not cut it. incompetence has - continuity will not cut it. - incompetence has consequences, continuity will not cut it. _ incompetence has consequences, and frankly. _ incompetence has consequences, and frankly. scotland — incompetence has consequences, and frankly, scotland deserves _ incompetence has consequences, and frankly, scotland deserves better. i frankly, scotland deserves better. but it _ frankly, scotland deserves better. but it does — frankly, scotland deserves better. but it does not— frankly, scotland deserves better. but it does not need _ frankly, scotland deserves better. but it does not need to _ frankly, scotland deserves better. but it does not need to be - frankly, scotland deserves better. but it does not need to be like i but it does not need to be like this _ but it does not need to be like this this— but it does not need to be like this this is— but it does not need to be like this. this is not— but it does not need to be like this. this is not as _ but it does not need to be like this. this is not as good - but it does not need to be like this. this is not as good as- this. this is not as good as it gets — this. this is not as good as it gets change _ this. this is not as good as it gets change is _ this. this is not as good as it gets. change is possible. i this. this is not as good as itj gets. change is possible. we this. this is not as good as it i gets. change is possible. we can have _ gets. change is possible. we can have a _ gets. change is possible. we can have a government _ gets. change is possible. we can have a government that - gets. change is possible. we can have a government that tacklesi gets. change is possible. we can. have a government that tackles the cost of _ have a government that tackles the cost of living — have a government that tackles the cost of living crisis _ have a government that tackles the cost of living crisis and _ have a government that tackles the cost of living crisis and brings - cost of living crisis and brings down — cost of living crisis and brings down bills _ cost of living crisis and brings down bills. we _ cost of living crisis and brings down bills. we can— cost of living crisis and brings down bills. we can have i cost of living crisis and brings down bills. we can have a i cost of living crisis and brings - down bills. we can have a government that grows— down bills. we can have a government that grows the — down bills. we can have a government that grows the economy _ down bills. we can have a government that grows the economy and _ down bills. we can have a government that grows the economy and invest i down bills. we can have a government that grows the economy and invest in. that grows the economy and invest in the opportunity— that grows the economy and invest in the opportunity of— that grows the economy and invest in the opportunity of the _ that grows the economy and invest in the opportunity of the future. - that grows the economy and invest in the opportunity of the future. we i the opportunity of the future. we can have — the opportunity of the future. we can have a — the opportunity of the future. we can have a government— the opportunity of the future. we can have a government that i the opportunity of the future. we can have a government that can. can have a government that can restore — can have a government that can restore and _ can have a government that can restore and renew _ can have a government that can restore and renew our - can have a government that can restore and renew our nhs, i can have a government that can| restore and renew our nhs, and can have a government that can i restore and renew our nhs, and we can have _ restore and renew our nhs, and we can have a — restore and renew our nhs, and we can have a government— restore and renew our nhs, and we can have a government that - restore and renew our nhs, and we can have a government that puts. restore and renew our nhs, and we i can have a government that puts the people's— can have a government that puts the people's priorities _ can have a government that puts the people's priorities first. _ can have a government that puts the people's priorities first. but - can have a government that puts the people's priorities first. but after i people's priorities first. but after 'ust people's priorities first. but after just three — people's priorities first. but after just three weeks _ people's priorities first. but after just three weeks in _ people's priorities first. but after just three weeks in office, - people's priorities first. but after just three weeks in office, isn't. people's priorities first. but after just three weeks in office, isn't it already— just three weeks in office, isn't it already clear _ just three weeks in office, isn't it already clear that— just three weeks in office, isn't it already clear that it _ just three weeks in office, isn't it already clear that it cannot - just three weeks in office, isn't it already clear that it cannot be i just three weeks in office, isn't iti already clear that it cannot be this first minister _ already clear that it cannot be this first minister or— already clear that it cannot be this first minister or this _ already clear that it cannot be this first minister or this snp - first minister or this snp government? _ first minister or this snp government?— first minister or this snp government? first minister. goodness — government? first minister. goodness. not _ government? first minister. goodness. not a _ government? first minister. goodness. not a single i government? first minister. | goodness. not a single idea. government? first minister. i goodness. not a single idea. not a single proposal. not a single bit of

understanding of the policy perspective, completely vacuous from the master of the sound bite. no substance at all. all style and no substance at all. all style and no substance whatsoever from anas sarwar, because he is vacuous, completely devoid of any policy proposals of his own whatsoever. he says the scottish government in the last 16 years has not achieved anything. what we have achieved as the game changing scottish child payment, which has helped 385,000 children under the age of 16 who are now eligible. we have established new public services, including of course social security scotland, based on fairness, dignity, and respect, though than 13 benefits, several of them only available here in scotland. we have delivered the baby boks, we have abolish tuition fees, the back door tuition fees

were brought in by the scottish labour party, we have abolished prescription charges, we have made sure that care is free for all when it to free personal and nursing care. we have now free bus travel for over 2 million people, for those who are under 22, for people with disabilities, those over the age of 60. we have built 118,000 affordable homes, we have funded childcare, we have the most generous offer of childcare here in scotland compared to anywhere else in the uk. and of course the difference between anas sarwar and me is that when it comes to the tory cost of living crisis, he wants to keep the powers at westminster. i want to ensure that this parliament has all the economic levers to tackle that cost of living crisis. and anas sarwar says, the people of scotland are crying out for change. what we don't need is a

replacement of one tory government with a pale imitation of a tory government with keir starmer. even anas sarwar must be embarrassed, i know certainly richard leonard will be, i know anas sarwar must be embarrassed by it keir starmer appealing to be right with his anti—refugee, anti—immigration rhetoric. we continue to stand up for the most marginalised, and we know that it is only with the powers of independence that we will get rid of independence that we will get rid of tory government. i call of independence that we will get rid of tory government.— of tory government. i call ruth maauire of tory government. i call ruth maguire to _ of tory government. i call ruth maguire to be _ of tory government. i call ruth maguire to be followed - of tory government. i call ruth maguire to be followed by - of tory government. i call ruth maguire to be followed by liz l of tory government. i call ruth - maguire to be followed by liz smith. during _ maguire to be followed by liz smith. during modern apprenticeship week, colleagues from across the chamber will have heard directly from apprentices about the high quality learning and work experience they receive. i know the first minister will appreciate that apprenticeships

also support economic renewal, locally and nationally. can i ask when skills develop in scotland will issue contracts for 2023—24 new start and enable people to clear the backlog of people waiting, and new start learners to begin their opportunities?— start learners to begin their opportunities? | pay i pay credit to ruth maguire, she has raised this issue on a number of occasions, and this is something we have all seen in our own constituencies, investing in skills across people's lifetimes in delivering a fair and growing economy. i can say that sts has already issued contract for the 39,000 modern apprentices currently in training, and i expect sds to

finalise contracts for new modern apprenticeship start in the next few days. i apprenticeship start in the next few da s. . r' apprenticeship start in the next few da s. ., w , apprenticeship start in the next few da 5. ., , ~' , ~ , apprenticeship start in the next few das. , ~ , ., days. i ask the first minister what detailed analysis _ days. i ask the first minister what detailed analysis has _ days. i ask the first minister what detailed analysis has been - detailed analysis has been undertaken _ detailed analysis has been undertaken by— detailed analysis has been undertaken by this - detailed analysis has been undertaken by this new i detailed analysis has been - undertaken by this new government when _ undertaken by this new government when it_ undertaken by this new government when it comes — undertaken by this new government when it comes to _ undertaken by this new government when it comes to looking _ undertaken by this new government when it comes to looking at - undertaken by this new government when it comes to looking at the - when it comes to looking at the question— when it comes to looking at the question of— when it comes to looking at the question of progressively- when it comes to looking at the - question of progressively increasing tax rates _ question of progressively increasing tax rates on — question of progressively increasing tax rates on middle _ question of progressively increasing tax rates on middle and _ question of progressively increasing tax rates on middle and higher- tax rates on middle and higher earners, — tax rates on middle and higher earners, a _ tax rates on middle and higher earners, a policy— tax rates on middle and higher earners, a policy that - tax rates on middle and higher earners, a policy that has- tax rates on middle and higher| earners, a policy that has been proven— earners, a policy that has been proven in— earners, a policy that has been proven in the _ earners, a policy that has been proven in the past _ earners, a policy that has been proven in the past to _ earners, a policy that has been proven in the past to actually l proven in the past to actually reduce — proven in the past to actually reduce economic— proven in the past to actually reduce economic activity, - proven in the past to actually| reduce economic activity, and proven in the past to actually - reduce economic activity, and we can the tax _ reduce economic activity, and we can the tax deat — reduce economic activity, and we can the tax deal. what _ reduce economic activity, and we can the tax deal. what analysis _ reduce economic activity, and we can the tax deal. what analysis has - the tax deal. what analysis has undertaken _ the tax deal. what analysis has undertaken to— the tax deal. what analysis has undertaken to ensure - the tax deal. what analysis has undertaken to ensure that - the tax deal. what analysis has undertaken to ensure that that| the tax deal. what analysis has - undertaken to ensure that that will not happen— undertaken to ensure that that will not happen in— undertaken to ensure that that will not happen in his— undertaken to ensure that that will not happen in his scottish- not happen in his scottish government? _ not happen in his scottish government? and - not happen in his scottish government? and that i not happen in his scottishl government? and that will not happen in his scottish- government? and that will have not happen in his scottish— government? and that will have very important _ government? and that will have very important applications _ government? and that will have very important applications for— government? and that will have very important applications for how - government? and that will have very important applications for how we i important applications for how we address— important applications for how we address the — important applications for how we address the deficit _ important applications for how we address the deficit that _ important applications for how we address the deficit that is - important applications for how we address the deficit that is being . address the deficit that is being projected — address the deficit that is being projected by— address the deficit that is being projected by the _ address the deficit that is being projected by the scottish - address the deficit that is being projected by the scottish fiscall projected by the scottish fiscal commission? _ projected by the scottish fiscal commission?— projected by the scottish fiscal commission? ., ., ., ., i, , commission? that detailed analysis is undertaken _ commission? that detailed analysis is undertaken whenever— commission? that detailed analysis is undertaken whenever we - commission? that detailed analysis is undertaken whenever we make . commission? that detailed analysis. is undertaken whenever we make tax changes, but i completely understand the point that was smith is raising around tax divergence, that is an important factor in that analysis. but i am unapologetic in saying that

those who are not the most, including all of us here, should pay more. we earn more, therefore we should pay more. i can hear some people disagreeing with that. i am not sure i am broomstick financial advice from sue webber. —— not sure i am going to take financial advice. the announcement by the former deputy first minister has allowed us to invest an extra £1 billion in our nhs, so detailed analysis is undertaken. if i wasn't too it was smith or indeed douglas ross, what she asked us to do was replicate was disastrous tax cuts to the wealthy that liz truss and kwasi kwarteng brought forward. that would have meant instead of having an extra £1

billion to spend, our budget would have been cut by £500 million. that is why i am not sure i will take economic literacy advice from the conservatives. i economic literacy advice from the conservatives.— conservatives. i called claire adamson- — conservatives. i called claire adamson. scotland - conservatives. i called claire adamson. scotland can - conservatives. i called claire adamson. scotland can be . conservatives. i called claire - adamson. scotland can be proud of its ulobal adamson. scotland can be proud of its global reputation _ adamson. scotland can be proud of its global reputation as _ adamson. scotland can be proud of its global reputation as an - adamson. scotland can be proud of its global reputation as an outward| its global reputation as an outward -tooking _ its global reputation as an outward -tooking country~ _ its global reputation as an outward —looking country. the _ its global reputation as an outward —looking country. the recent - its global reputation as an outward| —looking country. the recent tartan week— —looking country. the recent tartan week in— —looking country. the recent tartan week in new— —looking country. the recent tartan week in new york— —looking country. the recent tartan week in new york is— —looking country. the recent tartan week in new york is an _ week in new york is an incredible celebration — week in new york is an incredible celebration of— week in new york is an incredible celebration of our— week in new york is an incredible celebration of our nation - week in new york is an incredible celebration of our nation on - week in new york is an incredible celebration of our nation on the l celebration of our nation on the world _ celebration of our nation on the world stage. _ celebration of our nation on the world stage, which _ celebration of our nation on the world stage, which makes - celebration of our nation on the i world stage, which makesjames cteverty's — world stage, which makesjames cleverly's latest _ world stage, which makesjames cleverly's latest intervention - world stage, which makesjames cleverly's latest intervention onl cleverly's latest intervention on overseas — cleverly's latest intervention on overseas meetings _ cleverly's latest intervention on overseas meetings seem - cleverly's latest intervention on overseas meetings seem all. cleverly's latest intervention on| overseas meetings seem all the cleverly's latest intervention on - overseas meetings seem all the more insecure _ overseas meetings seem all the more insecure and — overseas meetings seem all the more insecure and desperate. _ overseas meetings seem all the more insecure and desperate. scottish - insecure and desperate. scottish ministers — insecure and desperate. scottish ministers have _ insecure and desperate. scottish ministers have a _ insecure and desperate. scottish ministers have a clear— ministers have a clear responsibility- ministers have a clear responsibility to - ministers have a clear. responsibility to promote ministers have a clear— responsibility to promote scotland international, _ responsibility to promote scotland international, in— responsibility to promote scotland international, in the _ responsibility to promote scotland international, in the face - responsibility to promote scotland international, in the face of- responsibility to promote scotland international, in the face of the i international, in the face of the latest _ international, in the face of the latest attempt _ international, in the face of the latest attempt to _ international, in the face of the latest attempt to undermine i international, in the face of thel latest attempt to undermine our devolution — latest attempt to undermine our devolution iiv— latest attempt to undermine our devolution by westminster, - latest attempt to undermine our devolution by westminster, willl latest attempt to undermine our. devolution by westminster, will be first minister — devolution by westminster, will be first minister reaffirmed _ devolution by westminster, will be first minister reaffirmed his - first minister reaffirmed his government's— first minister reaffirmed his government's commitmentl first minister reaffirmed his . government's commitment to championing _ government's commitment to championing scotland - government's commitment to championing scotland on - government's commitment to championing scotland on the i government's commitment to - championing scotland on the world stage? _ absolutely. of course they scottish conservatives _ absolutely. of course they scottish conservatives never _ absolutely. of course they scottish conservatives never even _ absolutely. of course they scottish conservatives never even wanted i absolutely. of course they scottish conservatives never even wanted a| conservatives never even wanted a creation of the scottish parliament,

so it is hardly a surprise they're chipping away to try to undermine devolution every chance