The Scottish Government has fought hard to make the case for Scotland to remain in the EU

benefits will be introduced with carers receiving the first payments of the new Carer’s Allowance Supplement.

Our new social security agency is a true demonstration of the SNP government’s commitment to fairness and that value extends to the new Scottish income tax system introduced this year, which embeds a progressive approach to taxation.

We are implementing radical policies to grow our economy and support businesses, taking steps to establish a Scottish National Investment Bank and a National Manufacturing Institute.

Unemployment is close to record lows, offshore and onshore tax revenues are rising, and our recent GDP growth is twice as fast as that of the rest of the UK.

In short, we have made significant social and economic

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progress over this past year and today I will set out how we intend to build on that.

While our new programme won’t focus on Brexit, it’s important to consider it in that context given the coming year is also the one where, as things stand, the UK will leave the European Union.

The Scottish Government has fought hard to make the case for Scotland and the UK to remain in the EU and, failing that, inside the Customs Union and Single Market.

Short of continued membership of the EU, staying within it stands as the most sensible economic solution to the UK Government’s shambolic handling of Brexit.

As we work hard to shape what that deal will mean for Scotland, we continue to set and deliver a domestic agenda which promotes prosperity and equality, whilst preparing Scotland for the future. This includes embracing challenges as opportunities – climate change being an obvious example. Next year the new electric trains between Glasgow and Edinburgh will be in operation and today I’ll also set out how the Government will become an early adopter of electric vehicles.

This Programme for Government has at its core support for our public services and we are strengthening our work to build an NHS which is fit for the future, addressing the challenges an ageing population brings.

We are also focused on the defining mission I have set for Government – closing the attainment gap in our schools.

The SNP Scottish Government has a strong and proud record on setting big ambitions and delivering. We know we face big challenges ahead, but this programme for Government will intensify our focus on improving the wealth and the wellbeing of communities across Scotland.