Stevenson Backs Scot Gov Calls on Green Ports

Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson has backed a call by the Scottish Government to ensure green ports have access to the same level of set-up of funding as freeports in England.

Trade Minister Ivan McKee has written to the UK Government calling for two green ports to be focused on fair and sustainable economic development to be established in Scotland.

The green port model will adapt the UK government’s freeport proposals, offering a package of tax and customs reliefs.

Earlier this year, proposals were put forward by the Scottish Government to establish green ports which would be more sustainable and require operators and businesses to pay the real living wage, adopt the Scottish Business Pledge and commit to supporting sustainable and inclusive growth in local communities.

Operators and beneficiaries will be required to commit to adopting Fair Work First criteria and contribute to Scotland’s just transition to net zero.

Commenting, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s call to the UK Government regarding green ports having access to the same level of seed funding which is being offered to freeports in England.

“It is clear there is support from businesses for green ports and it is important the UK Government supports the development of these ports right across the country and I look forward to the UK Government’s response on this issue.

“The Scottish Government’s proposals to take the freeport model and apply this country’s priorities from a green recovery from the coronavirus pandemic is one I wholeheartedly support.

“By diverging from the wider UK proposals, we can use a different freeport model to meet out net zero ambition and a wellbeing economy which upholds the highest standards of environmental protections and fair work practices.”