This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Swedish lessons in halting decline
18/10/2002
A Swedish programme to increase their country's population will be examined by Scottish officials.
First Minister Jack McConnell said that a self-confident, devolved Scotland can learn from initiatives introduced by Sweden's Government to encourage population growth.
The First Minister discussed Sweden's concerted programme of action, which includes support for new parents and affordable childcare, at a meeting in Stockholm with Swedish Prime Minister Goran Persson.
Mr Persson was one of the first European leaders to highlight the potential economic difficulties created by a declining population.
The First Minister expressed concern at Scotland's demographic profile and stressed his aim of promoting a society where talent from overseas is welcomed.
Mr McConnell and Mr Persson agreed that Executive officials will discuss the Swedish programme, in particular childcare, with Swedish Government officials.
Later, addressing a major seminar at the Swedish Institute of Foreign Affairs during the 'Scotland in Sweden' programme, Mr McConnell said:
"For a growing economy, we need a growing population, and I am determined to promote Scotland and meet that objective. I know that you have faced similar issues in Sweden and that you are taking action. I am sure that we can share experience on how to turn this around.
"An economy that retains its key resource - human capital - and, indeed, attracts skilled people is a healthy economy. It suggests a dynamic and energetic approach that creates a powerful image across the world.
"Over recent years, Scotland's population has been at best stagnant, at worst decreasing - our demographic profile is ageing. A smaller pool of people can mean less diversity, less variety and less confidence.
"My aim is to build a society that greets talent to Scotland, as other countries have welcomed Scottish talent to theirs. My vision of Scotland in the future is one where we lift our eyes to the horizon, looking outwards."
The First Minister said that the "radical innovation" of devolution enables Scotland to tackle the big issues facing the country, such a population growth, and also bring much to the development of ideas in Europe and further afield.
He added:
"Devolution offers us in Scotland a unique set of opportunities, to set our own priorities, to take the decisions that affect our lives, and to take responsibility for own futures. To become a self-confident government.
"And we can project that self-confidence - in Europe and beyond - to enrich the lives both of the people of Scotland and of our partners abroad.
"The "Scotland in Sweden" programme is a striking example of this. It has been a diverse and stimulating showcase for Scotland that will generate practical benefits for both our countries.
"Yesterday's prestigious Life Sciences Day clearly illustrated Scotland and Sweden's enviable position as world leaders in the field of biotechnological research and development.
"The many events celebrating Scottish culture, food, art, sport and tourism staged around Stockholm over the last few days, and - in conjunction with the British Council - over a period of several months, clearly demonstrate a new, confident and vibrant Scotland."
Mr McConnell addressed an audience of over 80 key business people, academics and opinion formers at the devolution seminar.
In the Scottish Budget for 2003-2006, it was announced that the Executive is providing an additional £64.9 million for childcare and support for families with very young children by 2006.