To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it, or the Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives, is undertaking to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises to prepare for a pandemic.

The Scottish Government has already undertaken considerable work with businesses to ensure that they are prepared for a flu pandemic. Engagement is continuing on both a Scottish and UK basis with businesses in sectors such as transport and energy.

A Scottish Framework for Responding to an Influenza Pandemic was published by the Scottish Government in 2007 and provides guidance and planning assumptions on which all business continuity plans should be made. The framework is supported by a range of sector-specific guidance, including advice on infection control. The guidance is available on the Scottish Government website at www.scotland.gov.uk/pandemicflu.

Local authorities also have a role in supporting businesses. Under the Civil Contingencies Act, local authorities are required to provide assistance to those undertaking commercial activities and to voluntary organisations in relation to business continuity management. These responsibilities are outlined in the Scottish Government’s guidance on preparing for emergencies Preparing Scotland. The Scottish Government continues to provide support to local authorities in carrying out this role.

The Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives provides advice on health promotion and occupational health and safety. Business continuity planning for a flu pandemic does not fall within this remit.