Scottish cities key to growth says Nicola Sturgeon

Scotland's cities are key to economic growth, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said.

Speaking at Holyrood, Ms Sturgeon highlighted the central role cities play in the economy.

The Scottish Government is to create an economic strategy for cities over the coming months to ensure this role is preserved and expanded, she told the economy, energy and tourism committee.

Discussing her new position as health, wellbeing and cities strategy secretary, she said: "It is not about interfering in or trying to assume responsibility for everything that happens in any one of our cities across the country. What it is about is ensuring that we give the growth and success of our cities due priority.

"Everyone here knows that the overriding objective of the Scottish Government is stable economic growth. The role of our cities is absolutely vital. Economic success is vital to the wellbeing of each of our cities but, in turn, the economic success of our cities is in proportion to the overall success of Scotland.

"It is important that we give due priority to making sure that our cities are as strong and as successful as they can be."

She said she would try to ensure Scottish Government policies supported the priorities set for Scotland's six cities.