The SNP’s Dave Doogan argues Labour’s policies are harming Scotland’s economy—destroying jobs, lowering wages, pushing up prices, and deterring investment—and he pledges to be a pro-business voice in Parliament."

He links these policies to two decades of Westminster economic stagnation, Brexit-related challenges, and a push for Scotland to gain full powers and pursue independence for a fresh start.

Doogan cites 300,000 more unemployed since Labour took power and warns another quarter of a million could lose jobs without action, tying this to the national insurance hike and a hostile business environment.

He emphasizes family businesses as well as key sectors—retail, hospitality, farming, fishing, and Scotland’s energy sector—as the backbone of communities.

Doogan pledges to be an unashamedly pro-business voice in the UK Parliament, advocating measures to help businesses create local jobs and attract investment, with special focus on family firms, farming, fishing, and energy.

He frames an unapologetically pro-business stance, aiming to champion policies that raise wages, support job creation, and boost investment across Scotland’s core sectors.

In response, Business Secretary Peter Kyle defends the government with a £4.3 billion business rates package, £4 billion for SME finance, action on late payments, and a higher minimum wage as stabilising steps.

Scottish Labour and Kyle counter with emphasis on employment gains and business support, while criticising SNP policies in Scotland.

The SNP says real action is needed to support businesses and argues independence is necessary to address Scotland’s economic challenges.

The article includes reactions from SNP colleagues, Scottish Labour, and UK government officials on policy impact on business and employment.

Doogan, newly appointed SNP Westminster leader, calls for an urgent review and scrapping of what he terms anti-business Labour-era policies, including rises in employer national insurance.

Doogan warns that vacancies have collapsed and living costs surged as growth slows and public finances deteriorate, urging action to back local jobs and businesses.