Business leaders aim to encourage entrepreneurial spirit in Scotland

TWO of Scotland’s most successful entrepreneurs, Sir Tom Hunter and Jim McColl, will take part in an event tomorrow aimed at inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.

Business leaders, academics and industry chiefs from across Scotland will tell the gathering at Holyrood how entrepreneurialism can deliver sustainable economic growth at all stages of a business.

Sir Tom said: “Scotland’s future is in all of our hands. We need to stand up and be counted and deliver for the future of this proud, proud nation.

“Do what we have always done and we will be defeated; innovate - experiment; aim high, aim long and I do believe we can reinvent the modern world.”

The event is jointly organised by the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Government and other ontributors will include

First Minister Alex Salmond, Finance Secretary John Swinney, Presiding Officer Tricia Marwick and Murdo Fraser, the convenor of Holyrood’s economy committee.

Ms Marwick said: “I’m delighted that the Scottish Parliament can today provide a platform for debate by bringing together over 200 leading names from the world of business, politics and the public sector.

“The seventh annual Business in Parliament event provides an exciting and unique opportunity to discuss and debate the role of entrepreneurialism in delivering sustainable economic growth in Scotland.”

Mr Swinney said: The Scottish Government, with our enterprise agencies and local authorities, work closely with business and industry to ensure the country continues to be a competitive place to do business, generating innovative ideas and new entrepreneurs.

“Scotland is recognised for its contribution to shaping the modern world through innovation and it is important we work together to build on this reputation and ensure Scotland retains its position as the most competitive environment to do business in the UK.”