This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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On the record video briefing
18/01/2005
First Minister Jack McConnell and Deputy First Minister Jim Wallace gave an on-the-record briefing to the media at St Andrew's House in Edinburgh today.
Mr McConnell said their would be no let up in the momentum of the devolved government's legislative plans during 2005.
He confirmed that higher economic growth remained the governemnt's top priority, and measures to tackle the problem of under-performing schools would be advanced.
In health, the Bill to ban smoking in public places would progress and the implementation of the Antisocial Behaviour Act would continue.
Mr McConnell added that 2005 would be an important year for the promotion of Scotland's international image, with the G8 meeting in Perthshire and other international relationship building work under way.
Mr Wallace begins the international work next week with a trip to China where he said he would be presenting Scotland's credentials for excellence in life sciences and higher and further education, as well as promoting wider cultural links.