One year on, the Scottish Government’s progress on its economic targets is a mixed picture, according to the Centre for Public Policy for Regions (CPPR).

A report by CPPR shows that more than half of the Government’s economic targets as set out in the Economic Strategy in November 2007, are on track to being delivered. Under current conditions however, its two principle targets of higher growth and higher productivity are the two furthest from being met.

The report is to be followed up by CPPR later in the year with ideas on how targets might best be achieved and whether these targets are appropriate for Scotland.

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Commenting on the report’s findings, co-author of the report, John McLaren said: "Today’s report presents an early review of where Scotland is currently placed with respect to each target, in terms of whether the target has been, or is likely to be, met and the size of the task required to ‘close’ any likely remaining gaps by the target date. We assume that the meeting of targets is meant to be on a sustainable basis rather than as just a one-off."

Co-author Jo Armstrong added: "The picture overall is mixed. Whilst the majority of targets appear to be on track, the Government’s prime targets, of higher growth and higher productivity, are two notable laggards. If the improvement in population growth comes about then this will help GDP growth but even then targets 1 and 2 are likely to be difficult to achieve."

(GK/NS)