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Dr Lesley Sawers
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Dr Lesley Sawers, Chief Executive of Scottish Council for Development and Industry, speaks to SPT Express about the need for more investment in Scotland's transport infrastructure.
1) What is your opinion of Scotland’s transport infrastructure? Do you agree with some critics who say we are lagging behind developments overseas?
It’s clear that we have consistently failed to invest anything like the amounts our European neighbours have invested in their transport networks, and this has undoubtedly held back the economy. We need better connections to our biggest markets south of the border, and better connections between central Scotland and the north east, southern Scotland and the Highlands if we are to really compete. That’s why the upgrading of the A9, the completion of the M8, M74 and M80 are so important to the economy. It is also critical that we continue to invest in the rail network around west central Scotland, including completing the Crossrail project.
2) Despite the current economic climate, how important is it to invest in future transport plans, particularly for the Commonwealth Games?
We’ve got to invest to make sure that we are ready for the upturn when it comes. People keep asking if we should invest for the future or try and spend now to support business and employment, but by investing in our transport infrastructure we can actually do both. The Commonwealth Games is a huge opportunity for Glasgow and Scotland, and new transport links are an essential part of the jigsaw to ensuring the Games delivers a real social and economic legacy for the country.
You are part of an economic advisory board aimed at helping businesses cope with the current economic downturn. What can Scotland do to fight the effects of the so-called credit crunch?
There are a number of ideas that we have put to government in Edinburgh and London. Firstly, we need to get the property market moving again by helping first time buyers, helping out struggling households, and encouraging investment. Secondly, we need to make sure anyone that loses their job has got the support they need to get straight back into the labour market. And finally, we have to support businesses that can take advantage of the cheap pound and grow their export markets.
4) Building better high speed rail links is high on the agenda in other European Cities. In Poland, plans are under way to link the north, south, east and west of the country with the capital Warsaw. Do you think the UK should be more ambitious than the current proposed Birmingham-London high speed link?
Definitely. Scotland’s biggest market is the rest of the UK, and it is vital that we have better connectivity with London and other business centres such as Birmingham.
5) You have dealt with SPT in the past, particularly in your previous role with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce. Our organisation is modernising. What changes have you noticed?
Since Ron Culley and the new management team took over, we have most definitely seen a more customer focused approach to operations. We have seen longer and more flexible operating hours and greatly enhanced customer communications. We recognise that this is a long term programme which requires significant public support and investment.
6) What would you say has been your greatest achievement/highlight of 2008?
2008 has been quite a year of change for me on the work front. I took over as Chief Executive of Scottish Council for Development and Industry in May, since that time we have experienced a global credit crunch and a major slow down in the economy - all of which is having a severe impact on jobs and the Scottish economy. Therefore for the last eight months my focus has been to work with member companies, government and politicians to minimise the impact of the recession on Scotland in terms of jobs, investment and future growth prospects.
7) What’s your favourite book and film of the year?
My favourite book this year was “Spitfire Women”, it’s the story of pioneering women who flew Spitfires during WWII. Despite their bravery, their contribution has never been recognised, it’s an inspiring story of endeavour, achievement and bravery.
Best film was “The Other Boleyn Girl”, I love historical dramas and it had everything you would want in a movie – a great story line, intrigue, action, beautiful costumes and good acting.
8) What does Christmas mean to you?
Christmas for me is a family time. It’s all about spending time with the people that mean most to me, enjoying a nice meal, relaxing and watching re-runs of old movies like the Great Escape or Morecambe & Wise Christmas specials and eating too much chocolate.
9) What are you hoping for from Santa?
It’s funny, but as you get older I seem to get more pleasure from giving presents than receiving. I really enjoy Christmas, the street lights, displays, decorations, everything seems to sparkle on the dark nights. I haven’t asked Santa for anything special, but I suspect or at least I’m hoping for a nice surprise!
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