why i am not sure i will 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 -looking _ its global reputation as an outward -looking 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 cleverly'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 by— latest attempt to undermine our devolution by westminster, - latest attempt to undermine our devolution by westminster, will| 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 that they get. i can absolutely reaffirm my intention and the government that i allude to promote scotland on the world stage. the uk government continues to deny the mandate from the people for a referendum on independence. since brexit we have seen nine breaches of the convention, the imposition of the internal market act, and the effect to give uk ministers powers to amend or scrap vital eu law in devolved areas. our international external engagement, often done in very good collaboration with uk embassies across the world, is to the benefit of our scottish food and drink industry, to our tourism sector, to our excellent higher education and

further education sectors. it is also to the benefit of life sciences and technology sector, the renewables sector. when i think of that excellent, transformative life—saving work done by our international development teams, why on earth would the uk government want to try to put a stop to that? we know why. because they are hell bent on undermining devolution. while i am first minister i will do everything i possibly can to stop them from doing that. hundreds of scots are struggling _ them from doing that. hundreds of scots are struggling more - them from doing that. hundreds of scots are struggling more than - them from doing that. hundreds of| scots are struggling more than ever and they— scots are struggling more than ever and they need — scots are struggling more than ever and they need this _ scots are struggling more than ever and they need this government - scots are struggling more than everl and they need this government focus on their— and they need this government focus on their priorities. _ and they need this government focus on their priorities. child _ and they need this government focus on their priorities. child poverty- on their priorities. child poverty has remained _ on their priorities. child poverty has remained at— on their priorities. child poverty has remained at 24% _ on their priorities. child poverty has remained at 24% for - on their priorities. child poverty has remained at 24% for the - on their priorities. child poverty. has remained at 24% for the entire time _ has remained at 24% for the entire time that— has remained at 24% for the entire time that the — has remained at 24% for the entire time that the sup— has remained at 24% for the entire time that the snp has— has remained at 24% for the entire time that the snp has been- has remained at 24% for the entire time that the snp has been in- time that the snp has been in government— time that the snp has been in government and _ time that the snp has been in government and severe - time that the snp has been in government and severe childl time that the snp has been in- government and severe child poverty has been _ government and severe child poverty has been rising _ government and severe child poverty has been rising. the _ government and severe child poverty has been rising. the first _ government and severe child poverty has been rising. the first minister. has been rising. the first minister has been rising. the first minister has been — has been rising. the first minister has been a — has been rising. the first minister has been a member— has been rising. the first minister has been a member of— has been rising. the first minister has been a member of the - has been rising. the first ministerl has been a member of the scottish parliament— has been a member of the scottish parliament for— has been a member of the scottish parliament for over— has been a member of the scottish parliament for over a _ has been a member of the scottish parliament for over a decade. - has been a member of the scottish parliament for over a decade. in i parliament for over a decade. in various— parliament for over a decade. in various guises _ parliament for over a decade. in various guises he _ parliament for over a decade. in various guises he has— parliament for over a decade. in various guises he has failed - parliament for over a decade. in various guises he has failed to l parliament for over a decade. in . various guises he has failed to use this parliament _ various guises he has failed to use this parliament properly— various guises he has failed to use this parliament properly to - various guises he has failed to use this parliament properly to rest i various guises he has failed to usel this parliament properly to rest the rising _ this parliament properly to rest the rising levels— this parliament properly to rest the rising levels of— this parliament properly to rest the rising levels of deep _ this parliament properly to rest the rising levels of deep poverty. - this parliament properly to rest the

rising levels of deep poverty. the l rising levels of deep poverty. the first minister— rising levels of deep poverty. the first minister has _ rising levels of deep poverty. the first minister has defined - rising levels of deep poverty. thei first minister has defined himself as a continuity— first minister has defined himself as a continuity candidate. - first minister has defined himself as a continuity candidate. ain't i as a continuity candidate. ain't that— as a continuity candidate. ain't that the — as a continuity candidate. ain't that the truth? _ as a continuity candidate. ain't that the truth? how— as a continuity candidate. ain't that the truth? how much - as a continuity candidate. ain't that the truth? how much of. as a continuity candidate. ain't . that the truth? how much of this as a continuity candidate. ain't - that the truth? how much of this is new money? — that the truth? how much of this is new money? how— that the truth? how much of this is new money? how much _ that the truth? how much of this is new money? how much of- that the truth? how much of this is new money? how much of his - that the truth? how much of this is new money? how much of his £1.3| new money? how much of his {1.3 billion— new money? how much of his {1.3 billion for— new money? how much of his {1.3 billion for the _ new money? how much of his {1.3 billion for the child _ new money? how much of his {1.3 billion for the child payment - new money? how much of his {1.3 billion for the child payment is - new money? how much of his £1.3| billion for the child payment is new monevit_ billion for the child payment is new monevit clear — billion for the child payment is new moneyit clear that— billion for the child payment is new moneyit clear that scotland - billion for the child payment is new moneyit clear that scotland is - billion for the child payment is new. moneyit clear that scotland is needs more _ moneyit clear that scotland is needs more than _ moneyit clear that scotland is needs more than just — moneyit clear that scotland is needs more than just a _ moneyit clear that scotland is needs more than just a sum _ moneyit clear that scotland is needs more thanjust a sum on— moneyit clear that scotland is needs more thanjust a sum on poverty. it| more thanjust a sum on poverty. it needs— more thanjust a sum on poverty. it needs action~ — more thanjust a sum on poverty. it needs action. does _ more thanjust a sum on poverty. it needs action. does he _ more thanjust a sum on poverty. it needs action. does he not- more thanjust a sum on poverty. it needs action. does he not realise . needs action. does he not realise that continuitv _ needs action. does he not realise that continuity will— needs action. does he not realise that continuity will not _ needs action. does he not realise that continuity will not cut - needs action. does he not realise that continuity will not cut a? - needs action. does he not realise| that continuity will not cut a? you see that got _ that continuity will not cut a? you see that got a _ that continuity will not cut a? see that got a rapturous that continuity will not cut a?” see that got a rapturous response from his own backbenchers. what action did i take? i make sure we tripled the chow security fund. i nature we secured additional funding for just nature we secured additional funding forjust transition in the north—east. i made sure we invested for school age child care targeted towards at the lowest income households in the country. i make sure there was additional money for deep end surgeries, the gp surgeries

look coated in areas of highest deprivation. that is where my focus is and that is where the focus of this government is. where paul and i do not differ is that there is a need to make sure we go further in reducing and tackling child poverty. let's not forget we are doing that with one hand tied behind our back. and unfortunately he wants to keep that hand tied behind our back. the financial levers, the levers over employment and the economy, are still held by a conservative government. but where we do have powers we must go further. i am happy to commit that when it comes to taxation, when it comes to how we redistribute wealth more evenly, i am committed to doing that. that is why in the anti—poverty summit i make sure we invited opposition parties. i hope he and anas sarwar

will come to that summit. where there are genuine ideas, i will make sure that we as a government listen to them and progressed them together. to to them and progressed them touether. ., ., , ~ , together. to ask the first minister have scottish _ together. to ask the first minister have scottish government - together. to ask the first minister have scottish government policiesi have scottish government policies will account — have scottish government policies will account for— have scottish government policies will account for the _ have scottish government policies will account for the needs - have scottish government policies will account for the needs of - have scottish government policies will account for the needs of and i will account for the needs of and challenges — will account for the needs of and challenges faced _ will account for the needs of and challenges faced by— will account for the needs of and challenges faced by rural - will account for the needs of and challenges faced by rural and - will account for the needs of and i challenges faced by rural and island communities — challenges faced by rural and island communities— challenges faced by rural and island communities. there is no doubt that the opportunity. _ communities. there is no doubt that the opportunity, equality, _ the opportunity, equality, community, the three thriving missions which are vital to everyone no matter where you live, you rural ireland or indeed urban scotland. everybody will benefit from the actions taken to tackle poverty and cope with the cost of living crisis. we will ensure we take a tailored approach, taking full account of regional circumstances, working closely with our partners in rural and island areas. for example, iam focus on housing in rural areas. we

are consulting on giving councils powers to raise council tax on second and long empty properties. we will also publish our rural delivery plan, setting of actions this government is taking to support our rural and island communities. everyone, including those snp backbenchers _ everyone, including those snp backbenchers otherwise - everyone, including those snp . backbenchers otherwise engaged todav, _ backbenchers otherwise engaged todav, now — backbenchers otherwise engaged today, now is _ backbenchers otherwise engaged today, now is that _ backbenchers otherwise engaged today, now is that this _ backbenchers otherwise engaged today, now is that this first - today, now is that this first minister's _ today, now is that this first minister's relaunch - today, now is that this first minister's relaunch has - today, now is that this firsti minister's relaunch has been today, now is that this first - minister's relaunch has been utterly torpedoed~ — minister's relaunch has been utterly torpedoed. whilst _ minister's relaunch has been utterly torpedoed. whilst he _ minister's relaunch has been utterly torpedoed. whilst he is _ minister's relaunch has been utterly torpedoed. whilst he is focused - minister's relaunch has been utterly torpedoed. whilst he is focused on| torpedoed. whilst he is focused on the turmoil— torpedoed. whilst he is focused on the turmoil within _ torpedoed. whilst he is focused on the turmoil within his— torpedoed. whilst he is focused on the turmoil within his own - torpedoed. whilst he is focused on the turmoil within his own party, . the turmoil within his own party, nhs waiting _ the turmoil within his own party, nhs waiting times _ the turmoil within his own party, nhs waiting times are _ the turmoil within his own party, nhs waiting times are still- the turmoil within his own party, nhs waiting times are still being missed. — nhs waiting times are still being missed. more— nhs waiting times are still being missed, more ferries _ nhs waiting times are still being missed, more ferries are - nhs waiting times are still being missed, more ferries are still- missed, more ferries are still breaking _ missed, more ferries are still breaking down— missed, more ferries are still breaking down and _ missed, more ferries are still breaking down and record - missed, more ferries are still- breaking down and record amounts of sewage _ breaking down and record amounts of sewage had _ breaking down and record amounts of sewage had been— breaking down and record amounts of sewage had been dumped _ breaking down and record amounts of sewage had been dumped into- breaking down and record amounts of l sewage had been dumped into scotland and's rivers _ sewage had been dumped into scotland and's rivers. this _ sewage had been dumped into scotland and's rivers. this is _ sewage had been dumped into scotland and's rivers. this is a _ sewage had been dumped into scotland and's rivers. this is a government- and's rivers. this is a government in total— and's rivers. this is a government in total paralysis. _ and's rivers. this is a government in total paralysis. for _ and's rivers. this is a government in total paralysis. for those - and's rivers. this is a governmentl in total paralysis. for those reason minded _ in total paralysis. for those reason minded people _ in total paralysis. for those reason minded people finally _ in total paralysis. for those reason minded people finally rethinking i in total paralysis. for those reason. minded people finally rethinking the support— minded people finally rethinking the support for— minded people finally rethinking the

support for the _ minded people finally rethinking the support for the snp, _ minded people finally rethinking the support for the snp, there - minded people finally rethinking the support for the snp, there is - minded people finally rethinking the support for the snp, there is an - support for the snp, there is an alternative _ support for the snp, there is an alternative. scottish— support for the snp, there is an alternative. scottish liberal- alternative. scottish liberal democrats _ alternative. scottish liberal democrats will _ alternative. scottish liberal democrats will be - alternative. scottish liberal democrats will be part - alternative. scottish liberal democrats will be part of. alternative. scottish liberal. democrats will be part of the alternative. scottish liberal- democrats will be part of the change that is _ democrats will be part of the change that is coming — democrats will be part of the change that is coming. there _ democrats will be part of the change that is coming. there is— democrats will be part of the change that is coming. there is a _ democrats will be part of the change that is coming. there is a nervous. that is coming. there is a nervous laughter— that is coming. there is a nervous laughter coming _ that is coming. there is a nervous laughter coming from _ that is coming. there is a nervous laughter coming from these - that is coming. there is a nervous- laughter coming from these benches, but they— laughter coming from these benches, but they know— laughter coming from these benches, but they know it — laughter coming from these benches, but they know it is _ laughter coming from these benches, but they know it is true... _ laughter coming from these benches, but they know it is true... i _ laughter coming from these benches, but they know it is true... i can - but they know it is true... i can actually hear — but they know it is true... i can actually hear mr _ but they know it is true... i can i actually hear mr cole-hamilton actually hear mr cole—hamilton plasma — actually hear mr cole—hamilton plasma question. i�*m actually hear mr cole-hamilton plasma question.— actually hear mr cole-hamilton plasma question. i'm surprised you can hear me _ plasma question. i'm surprised you can hear me over— plasma question. i'm surprised you can hear me over the _ plasma question. i'm surprised you can hear me over the sound - plasma question. i'm surprised you can hear me over the sound of - plasma question. i'm surprised you can hear me over the sound of see| can hear me over the sound of see these _ can hear me over the sound of see these being — can hear me over the sound of see these being frantically— can hear me over the sound of see these being frantically updated - can hear me over the sound of see i these being frantically updated from these being frantically updated from the government— these being frantically updated from the government benches. _ these being frantically updated from the government benches. when - these being frantically updated from the government benches. when at l these being frantically updated from . the government benches. when at the first minister — the government benches. when at the first minister was _ the government benches. when at the first minister was health _ the government benches. when at the first minister was health secretary - first minister was health secretary humza _ first minister was health secretary humza yousat— first minister was health secretary humza yousaf personally- first minister was health secretaryi humza yousaf personally promised first minister was health secretary i humza yousaf personally promised to clear down _ humza yousaf personally promised to clear down the — humza yousaf personally promised to clear down the atrocious _ humza yousaf personally promised to clear down the atrocious mental - clear down the atrocious mental health— clear down the atrocious mental health waiting _ clear down the atrocious mental health waiting list _ clear down the atrocious mental health waiting list bout - clear down the atrocious mental health waiting list bout this - clear down the atrocious mental i health waiting list bout this march. that came — health waiting list bout this march. that came and _ health waiting list bout this march. that came and went, _ health waiting list bout this march. that came and went, it _ health waiting list bout this march. that came and went, it was - health waiting list bout this march. that came and went, it was an- health waiting list bout this march. i that came and went, it was an utter failure _ that came and went, it was an utter failure how— that came and went, it was an utter failure. how many— that came and went, it was an utter failure. how many more _ that came and went, it was an utter failure. how many more years - that came and went, it was an utter failure. how many more years will l that came and went, it was an utteri failure. how many more years will it be before _ failure. how many more years will it be before people _ failure. how many more years will it be before people are _ failure. how many more years will it be before people are treated - failure. how many more years will it be before people are treated on - be before people are treated on time? _ be before people are treated on time? , ., be before people are treated on time? , ._ ., be before people are treated on time? , ., ., time? yesterday i had the great leasure time? yesterday i had the great pleasure of— time? yesterday i had the great pleasure of visiting _ time? yesterday i had the great pleasure of visiting a _ time? yesterday i had the great pleasure of visiting a chain - time? yesterday i had the great i pleasure of visiting a chain centre in dundee who managed to rip me into a game of six asides with folk... it

made me think that alex cole—hamilton cannot even field a team... he is getting defence from his conservative colleagues. there is a surprise. i would be careful with boasting about the support that alex cole—hamilton and two liberal democrats have here in scotland. what i would say is that the government is absolutely focused. is a because one of our significant priorities to tackle those long waits in regards to mental health. we are making progress. overall, waiting lists have decreased by 9%, a reduction of 777. in terms of children waiting over 18 weeks, that has decreased by over 30% since the last quarter. children waiting over

52 weeks decreased by over 40% since the last quarter. importantly and crucially the number of children starting treatment in this quarter is the highest on record. so we are seeing more and more young people. that is not to take away from the very important point is that alex cole—hamilton does raise. we are committed to increasing the workforce and we are seeing it continue to increase. but i take is point and mental health will be focused on by this government. that focused on by this government. at the snp leadership hustings, hosted by the _ the snp leadership hustings, hosted by the excellent _ the snp leadership hustings, hosted by the excellent inverness _ the snp leadership hustings, hosted by the excellent inverness courier. by the excellent inverness courier and highland— by the excellent inverness courier and highland news— by the excellent inverness courier and highland news media - by the excellent inverness courier and highland news media group, i by the excellent inverness courier. and highland news media group, the first minister — and highland news media group, the first minister was _ and highland news media group, the first minister was asked _ and highland news media group, the first minister was asked whether - and highland news media group, the first minister was asked whether he i first minister was asked whether he supported _ first minister was asked whether he supported the — first minister was asked whether he supported the dualling _ first minister was asked whether he supported the dualling of— first minister was asked whether he supported the dualling of the - first minister was asked whether he supported the dualling of the a9 - supported the dualling of the a9 from _ supported the dualling of the a9 from perth — supported the dualling of the a9 from perth to— supported the dualling of the a9 from perth to inverness - supported the dualling of the a9 from perth to inverness in - supported the dualling of the a9 from perth to inverness in totali supported the dualling of the a9 i from perth to inverness in total and the dualling — from perth to inverness in total and the dualling of—

from perth to inverness in total and the dualling of the _ from perth to inverness in total and the dualling of the a96. _ from perth to inverness in total and the dualling of the a96. the - from perth to inverness in total and the dualling of the a96. the first. the dualling of the a96. the first minister— the dualling of the a96. the first minister gave _ the dualling of the a96. the first minister gave welcome _ the dualling of the a96. the first minister gave welcome very - the dualling of the a96. the first- minister gave welcome very welcome commitments — minister gave welcome very welcome commitments. welcome _ minister gave welcome very welcome commitments. welcome because - minister gave welcome very welcome l commitments. welcome because they were entirely— commitments. welcome because they were entirely unequivocal. _ commitments. welcome because they were entirely unequivocal. this - commitments. welcome because they were entirely unequivocal. this will i were entirely unequivocal. this will happen _ were entirely unequivocal. this will happen. first— were entirely unequivocal. this will happen. first minister, _ were entirely unequivocal. this will happen. first minister, you - were entirely unequivocal. this will happen. first minister, you said . were entirely unequivocal. this will| happen. first minister, you said the capital— happen. first minister, you said the capital will— happen. first minister, you said the capital will be — happen. first minister, you said the capital will be found. _ happen. first minister, you said the capital will be found. therefore, - capital will be found. therefore, can i_ capital will be found. therefore, can i ask— capital will be found. therefore, can i ask when _ capital will be found. therefore, can i ask when this _ capital will be found. therefore, can i ask when this excellent - capital will be found. therefore, . can i ask when this excellent news will be _ can i ask when this excellent news will be the — can i ask when this excellent news will be the subject _ can i ask when this excellent news will be the subject of— can i ask when this excellent news will be the subject of a _ can i ask when this excellent news will be the subject of a detailed i will be the subject of a detailed ministerial— will be the subject of a detailed ministerial statement? - will be the subject of a detailed ministerial statement? given. will be the subject of a detailed i ministerial statement? given we will be the subject of a detailed - ministerial statement? given we have been treading — ministerial statement? given we have been treading water— ministerial statement? given we have been treading water for— ministerial statement? given we have been treading water for two _ ministerial statement? given we have been treading water for two years, . been treading water for two years, will this— been treading water for two years, will this be — been treading water for two years, will this be before _ been treading water for two years, will this be before the _ been treading water for two years, will this be before the summer- will this be before the summer recess? — will this be before the summer recess? l— will this be before the summer recess? , ,., , ., recess? i spotted fergus ewing at that leadership _ recess? i spotted fergus ewing at that leadership hustings. - recess? i spotted fergus ewing at that leadership hustings. just - recess? i spotted fergus ewing at that leadership hustings. just to l that leadership hustings. just to give him an absolute assurance, we are still committed to the dualling of the a9. we have invested £138 million, spent to date. we are targeting a contract award before the end of 2023. if that can be

brought forward, and engage with transport scotland are ready to see if that can be brought forward in any way. we will provide, in terms of the remaining sections, an updated timescale in autumn this year. i have heard fergus ewing asking for that to be brought forward before the summer recess, i will take that far away. this government's reckless plan to ban fishing — this government's reckless plan to ban fishing in— this government's reckless plan to ban fishing in large _ this government's reckless plan to ban fishing in large parts— this government's reckless plan to ban fishing in large parts of- ban fishing in large parts of scotland's _ ban fishing in large parts of scotland's seas— ban fishing in large parts of scotland's seas have - ban fishing in large parts of scotland's seas have beenl scotland's seas have been conveniently— scotland's seas have been conveniently omitted - scotland's seas have beenj conveniently omitted from scotland's seas have been - conveniently omitted from today's statement~ — conveniently omitted from today's statement. plans _ conveniently omitted from today's statement. plans are _ conveniently omitted from today's statement. plans are implicitly- statement. plans are implicitly listed — statement. plans are implicitly listed in — statement. plans are implicitly listed in the _ statement. plans are implicitly listed in the snp's _ statement. plans are implicitly listed in the snp's deal- statement. plans are implicitly listed in the snp's deal with. statement. plans are implicitlyl listed in the snp's deal with the greens— listed in the snp's deal with the greens have _ listed in the snp's deal with the greens have provoked - listed in the snp's deal with the greens have provoked an- listed in the snp's deal with the greens have provoked an outcry listed in the snp's deal with the - greens have provoked an outcry from coastal _ greens have provoked an outcry from coastal communities, _ greens have provoked an outcry from coastal communities, the _ greens have provoked an outcry from coastal communities, the fishing - coastal communities, the fishing

industry. — coastal communities, the fishing industry, islanders _ coastal communities, the fishing industry, islanders and - coastal communities, the fishing industry, islanders and anyone . coastal communities, the fishing . industry, islanders and anyone who cares _ industry, islanders and anyone who cares about— industry, islanders and anyone who cares about scotland _ industry, islanders and anyone who cares about scotland and's - industry, islanders and anyone who i cares about scotland and's economy. meanwhile, — cares about scotland and's economy. meanwhile, scotland's _ cares about scotland and's economy. meanwhile, scotland's farmers - cares about scotland and's economy. i meanwhile, scotland's farmers remain in at the _ meanwhile, scotland's farmers remain in at the dark— meanwhile, scotland's farmers remain in at the dark over _ meanwhile, scotland's farmers remain in at the dark over snp _ meanwhile, scotland's farmers remain in at the dark over snp plans - meanwhile, scotland's farmers remain in at the dark over snp plans for- in at the dark over snp plans for future _ in at the dark over snp plans for future funding, _ in at the dark over snp plans for future funding, despite - in at the dark over snp plans for future funding, despite wrong i future funding, despite wrong tractors — future funding, despite wrong tractors on _ future funding, despite wrong tractors on the _ future funding, despite wrong tractors on the parliament's l future funding, despite wrong - tractors on the parliament's lohan 'ust tractors on the parliament's lohan just a _ tractors on the parliament's lohan just a few— tractors on the parliament's lohan just a few months _ tractors on the parliament's lohan just a few months ago. _ tractors on the parliament's lohan just a few months ago. this - tractors on the parliament's lohan just a few months ago. this latest| just a few months ago. this latest policy— just a few months ago. this latest policy prospectus _ just a few months ago. this latest policy prospectus is _ just a few months ago. this latest policy prospectus is more - just a few months ago. this latest policy prospectus is more of- just a few months ago. this latest policy prospectus is more of the l policy prospectus is more of the same _ policy prospectus is more of the same from _ policy prospectus is more of the same from a _ policy prospectus is more of the same from a government- policy prospectus is more of the same from a government who l policy prospectus is more of the - same from a government who remains out of— same from a government who remains out of touch— same from a government who remains out of touch with — same from a government who remains out of touch with the _ same from a government who remains out of touch with the priorities - same from a government who remains out of touch with the priorities of- out of touch with the priorities of rural— out of touch with the priorities of rural scotland. _ out of touch with the priorities of rural scotland. no _ out of touch with the priorities of rural scotland. no mention- out of touch with the priorities of rural scotland. no mention of. rural scotland. no mention of farming, _ rural scotland. no mention of farming, no _ rural scotland. no mention of farming, no mention- rural scotland. no mention of farming, no mention of- rural scotland. no mention of. farming, no mention of fishing, rural scotland. no mention of- farming, no mention of fishing, no mention— farming, no mention of fishing, no mention of— farming, no mention of fishing, no mention of agriculture _ farming, no mention of fishing, no mention of agriculture and - farming, no mention of fishing, no mention of agriculture and one - mention of agriculture and one mention— mention of agriculture and one mention of— mention of agriculture and one mention of rural. _ mention of agriculture and one mention of rural. will- mention of agriculture and one mention of rural. will at - mention of agriculture and one mention of rural. will at the i mention of agriculture and one . mention of rural. will at the first minister— mention of rural. will at the first minister listen _ mention of rural. will at the first minister listen to— mention of rural. will at the first minister listen to rural— mention of rural. will at the first minister listen to rural and - mention of rural. will at the first. minister listen to rural and coastal communities— minister listen to rural and coastal communities and _ minister listen to rural and coastal communities and that _ minister listen to rural and coastal communities and that drop - minister listen to rural and coastal communities and that drop the - communities and that drop the reckless — communities and that drop the reckless proposals _ communities and that drop the reckless proposals and - communities and that drop the reckless proposals and ability. reckless proposals and ability urgent — reckless proposals and ability urgent deliver— reckless proposals and ability urgent deliver a _ reckless proposals and ability urgent deliver a new- reckless proposals and ability i urgent deliver a new agricultural belt that— urgent deliver a new agricultural belt that supports _ urgent deliver a new agricultural belt that supports rural - urgent deliver a new agricultural. belt that supports rural scotland? this government _ belt that supports rural scotland? this government has _ belt that supports rural scotland? this government has an _ belt that supports rural scotland? this government has an excellentj this government has an excellent track record when it comes to working with our rural communities, but particularly with our farming communities. rachel hamilton can

laugh all she wants. what is not a laughing matter is the hard brick set that her party has imposed, which has harmed rural scotland up and down the country. —— hard brexit. i have heard and listen to the concern of our coastal, island and fishing communities. the consultation did close yesterday. no criteria, no site selection has been heard. we will analyse the consultation. but haven't spoken this morning to mairi mcallan, we will engage with those coastal and fishing communities. we have always operated by, and i continue to from today, we will not impose these policies on communities who do not want number. let me go back to the point i was making trimech and

gallagher. we are facing twin crisis of climate crisis and nature and biodiversity loss. every time we propose something, the conservatives oppose it. it is important difficult decisions we make get as much consensus in this parliament as possible. only by taking the lead difficult decisions will ensure we tackle those twin crisis. but i hear what a number of our fishing, tackle those twin crisis. but i hear what a number of ourfishing, idling and fishing communities are saying. but i am sure we are in absolute agreement that we will work with our coastal communities come up with our fishing communities to see if we can find a way forward together.- find a way forward together. before i call the next _ find a way forward together. before i call the next member— find a way forward together. before i call the next member of, - find a way forward together. before i call the next member of, i- find a way forward together. before i call the next member of, i would. i call the next member of, i would advise, _ i call the next member of, i would advise, time is marching on a bit, i would _ advise, time is marching on a bit, i would be _ advise, time is marching on a bit, i would be keen to take as many members — would be keen to take as many members as possible and obviously many— members as possible and obviously many important issues to be raised and responded to. but i would appreciate succinct questions and

answers— appreciate succinct questions and answers to match. the appreciate succinct questions and answers to match.— appreciate succinct questions and answers to match. the first minister is riahtl answers to match. the first minister is rightly ambitious _ answers to match. the first minister is rightly ambitious for _ answers to match. the first minister is rightly ambitious for scotland, - is rightly ambitious for scotland, unlike _ is rightly ambitious for scotland, unlike his— is rightly ambitious for scotland, unlike his opponents _ is rightly ambitious for scotland, unlike his opponents who - is rightly ambitious for scotland, unlike his opponents who want l is rightly ambitious for scotland, - unlike his opponents who want most decisions _ unlike his opponents who want most decisions to — unlike his opponents who want most decisions to be — unlike his opponents who want most decisions to be taking _ unlike his opponents who want most decisions to be taking by _ unlike his opponents who want most decisions to be taking by our- decisions to be taking by our next-door— decisions to be taking by our next—door neighbour. - decisions to be taking by our. next—door neighbour. however, decisions to be taking by our- next—door neighbour. however, to secure _ next—door neighbour. however, to secure that— next—door neighbour. however, to secure that we _ next—door neighbour. however, to secure that we need _ next—door neighbour. however, to secure that we need a _ next—door neighbour. however, to secure that we need a growing, i secure that we need a growing, thriving — secure that we need a growing, thriving and _ secure that we need a growing, thriving and productive - secure that we need a growing, i thriving and productive economy. secure that we need a growing, - thriving and productive economy. is that possible — thriving and productive economy. is that possible when _ thriving and productive economy. is that possible when workers - thriving and productive economy. is that possible when workers pay - thriving and productive economy. is| that possible when workers pay 54% of their— that possible when workers pay 54% of their income _ that possible when workers pay 54% of their income in _ that possible when workers pay 54% of their income in income _ that possible when workers pay 54% of their income in income tax- that possible when workers pay 54% of their income in income tax and i of their income in income tax and national— of their income in income tax and national insurance, _ of their income in income tax and national insurance, with - of their income in income tax and national insurance, with vat- of their income in income tax and national insurance, with vat and| national insurance, with vat and fuel duty— national insurance, with vat and fuel duty eating _ national insurance, with vat and fuel duty eating into _ national insurance, with vat and fuel duty eating into the - national insurance, with vat and fuel duty eating into the rest? i national insurance, with vat and| fuel duty eating into the rest? to see first— fuel duty eating into the rest? to see first minister— fuel duty eating into the rest? to see first minister accept- fuel duty eating into the rest? to see first minister accept that - fuel duty eating into the rest? toi see first minister accept that high rates _ see first minister accept that high rates of— see first minister accept that high rates of income _ see first minister accept that high rates of income tax _ see first minister accept that high rates of income tax and _ see first minister accept that high rates of income tax and had - see first minister accept that high| rates of income tax and had the... kenny— rates of income tax and had the... kenny gibson _ rates of income tax and had the... kenny gibson of _ rates of income tax and had the... kenny gibson of course _ rates of income tax and had the... kenny gibson of course raises - rates of income tax and had the... kenny gibson of course raises an i kenny gibson of course raises an exceptionally important point. i know why the crown was coming from the conservatives, because they of course unfortunately are in charge of the majority of the financial and

economic levers. i expect groans from the conservatives every time they hear someone has to use pay more. we will continue to work with business where we can. we will continue to ensure that not only do we bring forward progressive taxation, but where possible ensure we can redistribute the wealth that scotland has more evenly. going back to the point i was racing to liz smith, we will always ensure that there is a robust analysis behind any of these spend or tax decisions that we make. but, my goodness, it would be so much more of an easy task if we had those full powers of independence, so we had those levers independence, so we had those levers in my hand, as opposed to the uk, who is hell—bent on giving tax breaks to the wealthiest. who is hell-bent on giving tax breaks to the wealthiest. when it comes to business _ breaks to the wealthiest. when it comes to business and _ breaks to the wealthiest. when it comes to business and economy, j breaks to the wealthiest. when it | comes to business and economy, i think— comes to business and economy, i think the _ comes to business and economy, i think the most— comes to business and economy, i think the most remarkable - comes to business and economy, i think the most remarkable thing . think the most remarkable thing about— think the most remarkable thing about the —

think the most remarkable thing about the first _ think the most remarkable thing about the first minister's - think the most remarkable thing - about the first minister's statement is that— about the first minister's statement is that is— about the first minister's statement is that is scrapped _ about the first minister's statement is that is scrapped or— about the first minister's statement is that is scrapped or returned - about the first minister's statement is that is scrapped or returned more initiatives _ is that is scrapped or returned more initiatives than _ is that is scrapped or returned more initiatives than x—rated _ is that is scrapped or returned more initiatives than x—rated or _ is that is scrapped or returned more initiatives than x—rated or set - is that is scrapped or returned more initiatives than x—rated or set of - initiatives than x—rated or set of new measures _ initiatives than x—rated or set of new measures. indeed, - initiatives than x—rated or set of new measures. indeed, the - initiatives than x—rated or set of - new measures. indeed, the document itself is _ new measures. indeed, the document itself is just _ new measures. indeed, the document itself is just me — new measures. indeed, the document itself isjust me or— new measures. indeed, the document itself isjust me or let _ new measures. indeed, the document itself isjust me or let postures - itself isjust me or let postures and platitudes. _ itself isjust me or let postures and platitudes. who _ itself isjust me or let postures and platitudes. who is - itself isjust me or let postures and platitudes. who is going. itself isjust me or let postures| and platitudes. who is going to object — and platitudes. who is going to object to— and platitudes. who is going to object to growing _ and platitudes. who is going to object to growing jobs, - and platitudes. who is going to object to growing jobs, higher. and platitudes. who is going to - object to growing jobs, higher wages or creating _ object to growing jobs, higher wages or creating more _ object to growing jobs, higher wages or creating more businesses- object to growing jobs, higher wages or creating more businesses chris i or creating more businesses chris mick— or creating more businesses chris mick perhaps _ or creating more businesses chris mick perhaps may— or creating more businesses chris mick perhaps may be _ or creating more businesses chris mick perhaps may be hours - or creating more businesses chris| mick perhaps may be hours rather than the _ mick perhaps may be hours rather than the green _ mick perhaps may be hours rather than the green ministers - mick perhaps may be hours rather than the green ministers who - mick perhaps may be hours rather than the green ministers who do i mick perhaps may be hours rather. than the green ministers who do not believe _ than the green ministers who do not believe in _ than the green ministers who do not believe in grey _ than the green ministers who do not believe in grey. but _ than the green ministers who do not believe in grey. but there _ than the green ministers who do not believe in grey. but there are - than the green ministers who do not believe in grey. but there are no - believe in grey. but there are no nreasuresm _ believe in grey. but there are no measures... what _ believe in grey. but there are no measures... what new- believe in grey. but there are no measures... what new training i believe in grey. but there are no i measures... what new training and support— measures... what new training and support measures _ measures... what new training and support measures are _ measures... what new training and support measures are going - measures... what new training and support measures are going to- measures... what new training and support measures are going to be i measures... what new training and . support measures are going to be put into place _ support measures are going to be put into place to — support measures are going to be put into place to help— support measures are going to be put into place to help people _ support measures are going to be put into place to help people into- into place to help people into higher— into place to help people into higher wage _ into place to help people into higher wage work? _ into place to help people into higher wage work? and - into place to help people into higher wage work? and what| into place to help people into- higher wage work? and what reform will be _ higher wage work? and what reform will be taken — higher wage work? and what reform will be taken of _ higher wage work? and what reform will be taken of the _ higher wage work? and what reform will be taken of the clatter— higher wage work? and what reform will be taken of the clatter of- will be taken of the clatter of landscape _ will be taken of the clatter of landscape of— will be taken of the clatter of landscape of enterprise - will be taken of the clatter of. landscape of enterprise support agencies? — landscape of enterprise support agencies? overall, _ landscape of enterprise support agencies? overall, if— landscape of enterprise support agencies? overall, if the - landscape of enterprise support agencies? overall, if the first. agencies? overall, if the first minister— agencies? overall, if the first minister is— agencies? overall, if the first minister is -- _ agencies? overall, if the first minister is —— what _ agencies? overall, if the first minister is —— what was - agencies? overall, if the first| minister is —— what was wrong agencies? overall, if the first- minister is —— what was wrong with the old _ minister is —— what was wrong with the old deat? — minister is —— what was wrong with the old deal? this— minister is -- what was wrong with the old deal?— the old deal? this is about new leadership _ the old deal? this is about new leadership and _ the old deal? this is about new leadership and a _ the old deal? this is about new leadership and a fresh - the old deal? this is about new leadership and a fresh start. i the old deal? this is about new. leadership and a fresh start. that is building on the successes that the government has had. think of the many businesses that would not have

survived the global pandemic if it wasn't for the measures that we had brought into place before the pandemic in terms of the small business bonus scheme. we have worked incredibly hard with business over the years. but i also listen to business when they want a reset of that relationship. that is why we will take longer on the launch of the drs scheme. i am certain that if we said we would go live in august, i would be castigated for that by the opposition. in terms of the points where i do agree with daniel johnson, i think his point around reforming the landscape is something thatis reforming the landscape is something that is very worthy of attention. i know that something that the government is looking at. in terms of the prospective itself, you have a clear set of outcomes were the

opposition and the scottish public can hold us to account for the deliverability of those outcomes. and we have promised to report on those outcomes annually. i'm sure danieljohnson will take greatjoy danieljohnson will take great joy in danieljohnson will take greatjoy in holding the government to account in holding the government to account in that regard. the in holding the government to account in that regard-— in that regard. the uk government has failed for _ in that regard. the uk government has failed for years _ in that regard. the uk government has failed for years now _ in that regard. the uk government has failed for years now to - in that regard. the uk government has failed for years now to reach i in that regard. the uk government has failed for years now to reach a | has failed for years now to reach a decision— has failed for years now to reach a decision on— has failed for years now to reach a decision on exporting _ has failed for years now to reach a decision on exporting charter- decision on exporting charter excluding _ decision on exporting charter excluding scotland's - decision on exporting charter excluding scotland's bottle . decision on exporting charter- excluding scotland's bottle return schenre~ — this is westminster�*s delay, but can they first minister save... this is westminster's delay, but can they first minister save. . ._ they first minister save... excuse me, we they first minister save... excuse me. we need _ they first minister save... excuse me. we need to _ they first minister save. .. excuse me, we need to hear— they first minister save. .. excuse me, we need to hear mr- they first minister save... excuse me, we need to hear mr grier's i me, we need to hear mr grier's guestion — me, we need to hear mr grier's question a— me, we need to hear mr grier's question. a brief question would be appreciated. question. a brief question would be appreciated-— appreciated. cannot they first minister are _ appreciated. cannot they first minister are say _ appreciated. cannot they first minister are say what - appreciated. cannot they first minister are say what he - appreciated. cannot they first minister are say what he had l appreciated. cannot they first i minister are say what he had the circular— minister are say what he had the circular economy— minister are say what he had the circular economy minister - minister are say what he had the circular economy minister will i minister are say what he had the| circular economy minister will do minister are say what he had the i circular economy minister will do to secure _ circular economy minister will do to secure the — circular economy minister will do to secure the inclusion _ circular economy minister will do to secure the inclusion and _ circular economy minister will do to secure the inclusion and ensure - circular economy minister will do to| secure the inclusion and ensure that the scheme — secure the inclusion and ensure that the scheme goes _ secure the inclusion and ensure that the scheme goes ahead _ secure the inclusion and ensure that the scheme goes ahead next- secure the inclusion and ensure that| the scheme goes ahead next march? there _ the scheme goes ahead next march? there is— the scheme goes ahead next march? there is no— the scheme goes ahead next march? there is no surprise _ the scheme goes ahead next march?

there is no surprise that _ the scheme goes ahead next march? there is no surprise that the - the scheme goes ahead next march? there is no surprise that the tories l there is no surprise that the tories just do not understand devolution. there is no doubt whatsoever that not providing the exemption under the internal market is at its extension to the deposit returns, because we cannot progress a deposit return scheme if it was not for that exemption of the internal market act, which we know far of reaches when it comes to issues of devolution. i am absolutely committed to the deposit return scheme. it will reduce littering substantially. it will increase recycling rates of single use drinks containers towards 90%. it will cut emissions by 4 million tonnes over 25 years, the equivalent of taking 83,000 cars off the road. it has already delivered hundreds of them is a pounds in investment across scotland. but we do need that uk government exclusion. i know we will do everything in our power. i also

know the uk government, certainly in some departments, are supportive of that exemption. but we know alister jack will do everything he possibly can to undermine this parliament and undermined devolution. but it would be helpful if those... i undermined devolution. but it would be helpful if those. . ._ be helpful if those... i very much welcome the _ be helpful if those... i very much welcome the first _ be helpful if those... i very much welcome the first minister - be helpful if those... i very much welcome the first minister are i be helpful if those. .. i very much l welcome the first minister are said about— welcome the first minister are said about being — welcome the first minister are said about being bowed _ welcome the first minister are said about being bowed in— welcome the first minister are said about being bowed in taxation - welcome the first minister are said about being bowed in taxation and i about being bowed in taxation and talking _ about being bowed in taxation and talking about _ about being bowed in taxation and talking about the _ about being bowed in taxation and talking about the redistribution . about being bowed in taxation and talking about the redistribution of| talking about the redistribution of wealth _ talking about the redistribution of wealth can— talking about the redistribution of wealth can he _ talking about the redistribution of wealth. can he say— talking about the redistribution of wealth. can he say anything - talking about the redistribution of wealth. can he say anything more specifically— wealth. can he say anything more specifically on _ wealth. can he say anything more specifically on council— wealth. can he say anything more specifically on council tax, - wealth. can he say anything more specifically on council tax, the - specifically on council tax, the second — specifically on council tax, the second and _ specifically on council tax, the second and empty— specifically on council tax, the second and empty homes - specifically on council tax, the - second and empty homes initiative chris and _ second and empty homes initiative chris and also _ second and empty homes initiative chris and also if— second and empty homes initiative chris and also if longer— second and empty homes initiative chris and also if longer term - second and empty homes initiative chris and also if longer term we i second and empty homes initiativel chris and also if longer term we can replace _ chris and also if longer term we can replace council— chris and also if longer term we can replace council tax. _ chris and also if longer term we can replace council tax. [— chris and also if longer term we can replace council tax.— replace council tax. i have announced _ replace council tax. i have announced the _ replace council tax. i have. announced the consultation replace council tax. i have - announced the consultation to none some possible changes in relation to council tax, some possible changes in relation to counciltax, because some possible changes in relation to council tax, because i do think we can possibly go further stop i am really offer that discussion. there

was an excellent s t report published i think september last year which gave a number of policy suggestions that i think very worthy of consideration from this government. scotland has little way delivering affordable housing right across the country between 2018 and 2022, we know we have seen 59% more affordable homes delivered per head of the population than in comparison to england, for example. but i am keen to see what we can do within the current council tax structures but i certainly would not rule out a further reform of council tax. but also looking at the alternatives to council tax, also looking at the alternatives to counciltax, because also looking at the alternatives to council tax, because we know we know we can do better. abs, council tax, because we know we know we can do better-— we can do better. a real priority for the scottish _ we can do better. a real priority for the scottish people... - for the scottish people... studio: _ for the scottish people... srumo: you _ for the scottish people... studio: you are - for the scottish people... | studio: you are watching for the scottish people... - studio: you are watching bbc for the scottish people... _

studio: you are watching bbc news. we have just been watching scotland fans first minister respond to these questions from his colleagues. before that, giving that significant speech in holyrood, setting out his priorities for the next three years, what he wants to achieve and get done. but he also acknowledge it was against a less than ideal backdrop. he started that speech with the words, "being first minister is not without its challenges." that was met with some laughter across the chamber there. we will get more on that snp investigation injust chamber there. we will get more on that snp investigation in just a moment. first of all, i want to get some immediate reaction to what we heard on the significant day in scottish politics. we can speak to brian taylor, columnist at the herald. what you make of it, brian?

isn't humza yousaf becoming the master of the ironic understatement? today he was of course referring to the fact that the current snp treasurer was arrested and questioned this morning. two weeks ago when at the former chief executive of the party, peter morrell, the husband of the former first minister, when he was arrested and questioned by the police and later released, hums out use of described it as a "difficult day." —— humza yousaf described it as. he mentioned independence in response to questions, but there was not much bombast from him in that regard. he was talking more about the challenges and problems that scotland, the uk and at the globe faces. i thought it was very interesting indeed. that has been

considerable disquiet amongst the business community in scotland. they felt they would been ignored by the previous regime. they perhaps felt kate forbes was a more pro—business candidate in that leadership contest. they were concerned about what humza yousaf has to offer. he set out to respond to that in detail. he said he was in favour of equality, in favour of taxation, in favour of low pay. equally he agut you have prosperous scotland buffer equality. a serial disjuncture of noises affecting the whole of the statement.— affecting the whole of the statement. ~ . . , ., ., , affecting the whole of the statement. ~ . . ., , ., statement. what are your thoughts to what the scottish _ statement. what are your thoughts to what the scottish conservatives - statement. what are your thoughts to what the scottish conservatives and i what the scottish conservatives and scottish labour responses? he is not

now running a functioning government were some of the responses. what you make of those? the were some of the responses. what you make of those?— make of those? the opposition at leadership 90 _ make of those? the opposition at leadership 90 very _ make of those? the opposition at leadership 90 very little - make of those? the opposition at leadership 90 very little attempt | make of those? the opposition at i leadership 90 very little attempt to respond to the statement at all and any of detail. no doubt they will get to that later. they were simply pointing out that serial disjuncture i referred to earlier, by saying we are having a first minister making a statement here about his three year priority, where as in at the past three weeks at the snp has been completely swamped and dominated by the police investigation being stepped up into the party's finances. alex called hamilton said the statement was torpedoed. it was again at thatjuncture. the opposition leader is absolutely itching to ask humza yousaf about party problems. but the presiding officer and the chair saying this is

a statement to parliament about scottish government priorities. answers only on those matters. i answers only on those matters. i want to bring injamie mcivor, our correspondent who was also across that and listening to that speech. i want to assume more about the substance. 0ut want to assume more about the substance. out to you in the actual speech? substance. out to you in the actual seech? , , ,., speech? very interesting point. it is now very _ speech? very interesting point. it is now very much _ speech? very interesting point. it is now very much the _ speech? very interesting point. it is now very much the case - speech? very interesting point. it is now very much the case that i speech? very interesting point. it- is now very much the case that humza yousaf— is now very much the case that humza yousaf is _ is now very much the case that humza yousaf is portrayed as the continuity candidate all the way through— continuity candidate all the way through the snp leader election. much— through the snp leader election. much of— through the snp leader election. much of what he said this afternoon does touch— much of what he said this afternoon does touch on that theme of continuity— equality, opportunity, community. in some sense, no rapid departure _ community. in some sense, no rapid departure from the priorities of nicola — departure from the priorities of nicola sturgeon's government. he talked _ nicola sturgeon's government. he talked very much about trying to reduce _ talked very much about trying to reduce the impact of poverty, ctosing — reduce the impact of poverty, closing the attaining gap between advantage and disadvantage children

in schools _ advantage and disadvantage children in schools. another of nicola sturgeon's key themes. but on the other— sturgeon's key themes. but on the other hand, two very big departures from what _ other hand, two very big departures from what went before. one was from the deposit _ from what went before. one was from the deposit return scheme, the scheme — the deposit return scheme, the scheme to encourage more people to recycle _ scheme to encourage more people to recycle and _ scheme to encourage more people to recycle and reuse bottles, returning them _ recycle and reuse bottles, returning them to— recycle and reuse bottles, returning them to shops and supermarkets will stop many— them to shops and supermarkets will stop many in the business community in scotland _ stop many in the business community in scotland have been very worried indeed _ in scotland have been very worried indeed about the impact that scheme might— indeed about the impact that scheme might have. the scottish government had been _ might have. the scottish government had been defending it until relatively recently. so, certainly significant at the beginning of that scheme _ significant at the beginning of that scheme has now been delayed until march _ scheme has now been delayed until march of— scheme has now been delayed until march of one next year, so that i can be _ march of one next year, so that i can be looked at and refined. also, alcohol— can be looked at and refined. also, alcohol advertising. you can imagine whiskey— alcohol advertising. you can imagine whiskey in _ alcohol advertising. you can imagine whiskey in particular is a very important _ whiskey in particular is a very important contributor to the economy in parts _ important contributor to the economy in parts of— important contributor to the economy in parts of scotland. there has been

a lot of— in parts of scotland. there has been a lot of some amongst the food and drinks _ a lot of some amongst the food and drinks industry that a consultation on advertising alcohol and its marketing lead to a situation where the restrictions will do far more harm _ the restrictions will do far more harm than— the restrictions will do far more harm than good for the industry. there _ harm than good for the industry. there was— harm than good for the industry. there was a real concern by some in the industry— there was a real concern by some in the industry that this would simply damage _ the industry that this would simply damage the drinks industry. when it came _ damage the drinks industry. when it came to _ damage the drinks industry. when it came to all— damage the drinks industry. when it came to all kinds of problems of advertising, marketing, cobranding and so _ advertising, marketing, cobranding and so on — advertising, marketing, cobranding and so on. the fact that scheme will be looked _ and so on. the fact that scheme will be looked at — and so on. the fact that scheme will be looked at again is a pretty significant departure. humza yousaf would _ significant departure. humza yousaf would have hoped this would be the day for— would have hoped this would be the day for resetting his government, but of— day for resetting his government, but of course the attention is all elsewhere on the crisis in the snp. let's _ elsewhere on the crisis in the snp. let's remind ourselves of the

background, the arrest of that senior snp figure. before we get brian in 's thoughts on that, just a quick reminder of where we are on that police investigation. this is a background into the pru of snp finances. —— into the probe of snp finances. —— into the probe of snp finances. questions arose when it emerged that the party had less than £100,000 in the bank. peter murrell, former chief executive of the party, learned more than £100,000 of his own money. he is married to the former first minister, nicola sturgeon. last month, peter morrell resigned from the snp after taking responsibility for misleading the public about its plummeting membership figures. and now the party's treasurer, colin bt, has

been arrested by police.