Chamber chief's bullish stance on recovery

OPTIMISM is key to Scotland's recovery, according to Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce chief executive, Ron Hewitt.

He said it was no surprise that recent surveys had found the public in gloomy mood. However, he said: "Confidence is at the heart of business success and so it is vital for the recovery that we rebuild public confidence. Many companies are actively rebuilding the economy with new products, new services and a whole new way of looking at things."

He added: "No economic recovery happens overnight, but entering the new year with an eye for opportunity and an unquenchable sense that we can deliver a bright future are essential components for achieving change."