23.09.2013
The new Chief Executive of the Royal Bank of Scotland, Ross McEwan, will make one of his first public speeches when he addresses delegates at the Business in Parliament conference in November.
Now in its eighth year, Business in Parliament brings together politicians and senior representatives from businesses across Scotland during the two day event on 21 and 22 November. Tackling the major issues that matter to Scottish businesses, this year’s event will look at how to maximise economic growth during a time of financial constraint.
The Convener of the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee, Murdo Fraser MSP and the First Minister Alex Salmond MSP will also address the conference, which is being held in the Debating Chamber of the Scottish Parliament.
Presiding Officer, The Rt Hon Tricia Marwick MSP said:
“The fact that this event is now in its eighth year and attracts over 200 of Scotland’s leading business people is testament to the esteem it is held by both MSPs and the industry in Scotland. I look forward to chairing what I am sure will be a robust debate.”
Convener of the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“This conference helps to bridge the gap between business and politics. From family owned businesses, to multinational companies, the event offers a unique platform for businesses from across Scotland to engage directly with politicians on the issues that matter to them.”
Finance Secretary John Swinney said:
“The Scottish Government, with our enterprise agencies and Local Authorities, work closely with business and industry to ensure the country continues to be a competitive place to do business. Scotland is recognised for its contribution to shaping the modern world through innovation and it is important we work together to build on this reputation and ensure Scotland retains its position as the most competitive environment to do business in the UK.
“The Business in Parliament Conference is a great opportunity for leading business people, academics and politicians to come together to discuss how best we can encourage, inspire and support economic growth plans.”
Ross McEwan, Chief Executive of the Royal Bank of Scotland said:
“RBS is proud to be part of the fabric of Scottish society and to be headquartered here. We take our role in Scotland very seriously and support more than 120,000 Scottish businesses. I am delighted to have the opportunity to take part in this event which provides a unique platform for business people and politicians to come together to discuss the issues that matter to businesses."
Background
Mr McEwan will take up the post of RBS Chief Executive on 01 October.
The programme for the event will also include a range of workshops led by a number of senior business leaders in Scotland.
The morning session being held in the Debating Chamber will be broadcast live and media are invited to attend if they register in advance.
Held jointly by both the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Government, the event is supported by all the main business organisations in Scotland (CBI Scotland, Federation of Small Business, Scottish Council for Development and Industry, Institute of Directors, Scottish Chambers of Commerce and Scottish Financial Enterprise) as well as the STUC and the Parliament’s Business Exchange.