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CBI Scotland is holding a business dinner in Dundee supported by Clydesdale Bank PLC, Willis Group and Thorntons Solicitors on Wednesday 19 November 2008 at the Apex Hotel. Richard Broughton, CBI president and British Airway’s chairman is confirmed as the guest speaker for what should be an excellent networking opportunity for business people working in Tayside. If you would like further details or would like to attend, please contact colette.cunningham@cbi.org.uk

Next generation of national qualifications

CBI Scotland will be responding to the Scottish government’s consultation on the next generation of national qualifications in Scotland. The Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning has announced government proposals that a new qualification will replace the present Standard Grade and Intermediate qualifications. The proposals also include a new award for literacy and numeracy as well as greater flexibility on when young people can study for qualifications, ensuring pupils progress through qualification levels at a pace that is best suited to the individual. If you have any comments or views on the Scottish government’s proposals, please email iain.ferguson@cbi.org.uk

Scotland’s energy future – member views wanted

CBI Scotland has established an Energy Group to inform and guide our response to the current parliamentary inquiry into Scotland’s energy future. The group will examine the energy problems faced by Scottish firms – users and producers – how business and the country can best meet these, the obstacles to be overcome, and any necessary public policy changes. To share your views email david.lonsdale@cbi.org.uk

Setting decapitalisation rates

The Scottish government is currently consulting on its proposals for setting the decapitalisation rates for the 2010 revaluation of commercial property. Members with views or evidence on this issue should email david.lonsdale@cbi.org.uk

Extending Freedom of Information

The devolved government is considering whether to extend Freedom of Information regulations to include firms which deliver public services on behalf of councils or other public bodies. Members with views on this should email david.lonsdale@cbi.org.uk

Procurement exhibition

Procurex 2008 is Scotland’s first dedicated private and public sector procurement exhibition. The event is a unique opportunity for Scottish businesses to gain an in-depth insight into the vast array of opportunities in today’s ever-changing procurement marketplace. It is supported by the Scottish government and is a great opportunity to develop new partnerships and opportunities to maximise business growth. Attendance at Procurex 2008 is free and you can register at www.procurexscotland.co.uk

CBI responds on climate change

Our response to the Scottish government’s Climate Change Bill Consultation supports the CBI Climate Change Task Force’s message that business is committed to working in partnership with government and consumers to tackle climate change. It also states that, with the right policy mix, this can be achieved in a cost-effective manner. To read the response click here (PDF 121kb).

Regional Trends Survey

Strong international demand for British-made goods drove growth in new orders in most UK regions and nations, according to the latest quarterly Regional Trends Survey from the CBI and Experian.

But the deteriorating economic outlook has depressed confidence in manufacturing businesses across the UK and, as costs continue to surge, virtually all regions plan to raise their prices in the coming quarter. Read the full press release for the local outlook.

CBI evidence guides Finance Committee

CBI Scotland and the CBI's Public Services Directorate have submitted evidence to the Scottish Parliament's Finance Committee, informing its inquiry into methods of funding capital investment projects. The response points out the success of the the Private Finance Initiative, which has delivered greater efficiencies and improved service quality across public services. CBI evidence has also outlined the challenge – ie creating the right environment for PFI to flourish through strong political will, the right commissioning skills and a fair market for suppliers to operate. For more information on the CBI's response, please email david.lonsdale@cbi.org.uk

The latest from CBI Scotland

Tayside Business Dinner 2008