The core aim of the SNP Government in the coming term will be to focus on delivering sustainable economic growth.

First Minister Alex Salmond made the pledge in the Parliament yesterday while unveiling the Government’s legislative program.

Key among the 15 bills is the proposal to abolish council tax, a dedicated Scottish Marine Bill, a Climate Change Bill, criminal justice legislation and reforms to the way alcohol and tobacco can be marketed and sold. In addition, the Government will legislate to decouple Scottish Parliament and local government elections in line with the recommendations of the Gould Report.

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Salmond said: "Over the next 12 months, we will govern with the same energy as characterised our first year in office, and with absolute confidence in Scotland's ability to succeed.

"This is an ambitious programme to benefit individuals, families and society as a whole - with key legislative measures such as abolition of the oppressive council tax in favour of a fair local income tax, bringing much needed relief to household budgets; a Criminal Justice Bill to make Scotland safer and stronger; and a world-leading Climate Change Bill.

"And we will continue to deliver measures which do not require legislation, and which make Scotland a better place for everyone to live in - as we demonstrated this week with the abolition of car parking charges at NHS hospitals, the launch of the cervical cancer vaccination campaign for girls; and plans for a major expansion of hydro power in Scotland.

"Our core purpose as a government is to promote higher levels of sustainable economic growth. And in doing so we must harness the new confidence and optimism in this country, enabling all of Scotland's people to achieve their full potential. Our new legislative programme fully reflects this ambition."

(GK/KMcA)