Lib Dems attack SNP failure to use Euro cash to support small business (BANFFSHIRE and BUCHAN COAST Liberal Democrats)

BANFFSHIRE and BUCHAN COAST Liberal Democrats <info@banffandbuchanlibdems.org.uk>

Lib Dems attack SNP failure to use Euro cash to support small business

May 28, 2009 9:26 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Liberal Democrats will call on the Scottish Government to move urgently to access European money to support small business struggling during the recession.

Finance spokesperson Jeremy Purvis MSP will use the party's Opposition Day to stress the need for the SNP to respond to the economic crisis by using European Investment Bank money to help small businesses bridge funding gaps.

Commenting, Mr Purvis said:

"At a time of recession, Scottish business needs rapid action not Government spin and whinging about Westminster.

"This economic crisis is hitting small businesses in particular hard and costing jobs.

"In Wales, 800 businesses and 15,000 jobs have been targeted for support by European Investment Bank money. The Liberal Democrats in the Welsh Assembly have delivered Finance Wales to support businesses. We have been calling on the Scottish Government to do the same for nine months now, but the SNP is dragging its heels.

"Whilst the SNP have supported European Investment Bank funding for PPP projects, this funding could also be making a real difference to Scotland's small businesses right now. It's a disgrace that the SNP didn't seize this opportunity months ago.

"It's time for the SNP and the UK Government to work together to end the delay, stop dithering and help small business in Scotland."

Ends.