Science and research are top formula for Lib Dems

LIBERAL Democrats today put science and research at the heart of their manifesto for next month's Scottish Parliament elections, proposing a Minister for Science, support for companies investing in research and a drive to boost women pursuing scientific careers.

Launching the manifesto in the Borders today, Scottish Lib Dem leader Tavish Scott said: "One of the genuine success stories in the last generation has been the growth in the reputation of Scotland's research and science capacity. Edinburgh's Science Festival is a great example."

He said the party would work with universities and colleges to support companies considering investment in research and development in Scotland. It would also appoint a Minister for Science, Innovation and Digital Economy, and establish an annual Scottish Enlightenment Prize for Science to recognise world-leading examples of science research or industrial development taking place in Scotland.

The Lib Dems said they would also aim to increase the number of women pursuing careers in science by establishing a Ministerial Task Group.

Today's launch came less than 24 hours after former Lib Dem MSP John Farquhar Munro endorsed Alex Salmond as "the only one" to lead Scotland as First Minister in the next parliament. He made it clear he was still voting Lib Dem and backing Lib Dem candidates but his remarks were seen as a blow to Mr Scott's campaign.

The manifesto confirms the party's plans to exempt low-income pensioners from paying council tax, oppose the creation of a single police force and reduce the pay bill for top earners in the public sector.

And the Lib Dems would set up regional development banks to replace Scottish Enterprise.

Mr Scott said: "We live in tougher times, so I want to set out real ideas for Scotland, ideas that recognise that Scotland needs long-term solutions, not short-term political fixes. I know the pressures families and businesses across Scotland face - rising prices in the shops and uncertainty in the workplace, local services we all depend on under pressure.

"We are setting out ways to tackle these challenges - solutions that will create the conditions for jobs, restore excellence in our schools and keep vital services local.

"Politicians don't create jobs, but they can cut red tape, invest in apprenticeships, colleges and universities, and find new ways to get money to small businesses. Politicians don't teach, but they can give teachers space and freedom to innovate. Politicians can clear away reams of paperwork and give head teachers the room to lead."