Scotland's Economy

That the Parliament notes with concern that the Scottish economy contracted in the final quarter of 2016, while the wider UK economy experienced strong growth; notes that business confidence in Scotland is lower than in any other part of the UK; further notes commentary from the Fraser of Allander Institute that it is hard to argue that Scotland’s weaker economic performance can be explained by the outcome of the EU referendum; recognises that recent policies of the Scottish Government, including on income tax, business rates, the large business supplement and the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax will further undermine growth; considers that in prioritising its aim of separation from the UK above all else, the Scottish Government has neglected and mismanaged the economy; further considers that the threat of a second referendum is causing further economic damage, and therefore calls on the Scottish Government to set aside its campaign for a second referendum and take urgent action on the economy instead.