Angela Constance (Scottish National Party)

To ask the Scottish Executive whether it endorses the people's charter as supported by the Trades Union Congress. (S3O-8227)

John Swinney (Scottish National Party)

The Scottish Government is pursuing a broad programme of action to offset the consequences of recession. We have also expressed directly to the United Kingdom Government our views about the case for continued public investment. We have not been asked to endorse the people's charter.

Angela Constance (Scottish National Party)

The minister will be aware of the laudable objectives that underpin the charter, which in essence is a campaign for change that aims at reconstituting the fabric of our society. What does the minister see as the best route to delivering the people's charter in Scotland?

John Swinney (Scottish National Party)

Many of the objectives of the people's charter accord with the Administration's programme and actions. The arguments that the Administration has made in relation to accelerating capital expenditure to provide investment in our housing sector or in infrastructure in Scotland are part of the intervention that is essential if we are to ensure that we achieve our objectives. The Administration's on-going and enduring work to tackle inequality in our society and to provide opportunities for all to flourish through sustainable economic growth strikes me as being the most appropriate way in which to make progress on the agenda.

John Park (Labour)

I am not sure whether the cabinet secretary is aware that the TUC motion on the people's charter was amended by the Unite trade union, which called on the TUC to work with the Labour Party in pursuing the progressive policies in the charter. Can we look forward to the Scottish National Party engaging positively with the Labour Party on some of the key issues that are outlined in the charter?

John Swinney (Scottish National Party)

I am noted in this Parliament for being one of the most co-operative ministers, always desperate to work with others and seek common ground.

Mike Rumbles (Liberal Democrat)

But what competition is there?

John Swinney (Scottish National Party)

I say to Mr Rumbles that there is not much competition over there on the Labour benches.

This Administration will commit itself to working with the United Kingdom Government, whether it takes forward initiatives that we think are the appropriate choices for the people of Scotland or whether we can influence it to change its mind on certain questions. I note with delight that today we have had a great concession from the Labour Party in Scotland—it has come to the conclusion that more accelerated capital expenditure is required in the Scottish economy. I am delighted to welcome that conversion and I am sure that Mr Park had something to do with bringing about such a common-sense solution.

Alex Fergusson (None)

Before we come to questions to the First Minister, I am sure that members will wish to join me in welcoming to the gallery His Excellency Louis B Susman, the United States ambassador to the United Kingdom. [ Applause. ]