THE political turbulence of the last few weeks will hopefully stabilise in the coming days and provide a little more certainty for businesses. However, this is the right moment to reflect on the lessons for the next First Minister from the incumbent’s record.

Humza Yousaf made a promising start as First Minister. He shrewdly recognised the bruising exchanges between the government and business community over a raft of expensive and ill-thought-through regulatory initiatives couldn’t continue.

He moved swiftly to hit the pause button on the deposit return scheme (DRS) and draconian plans to restrict the promotion of alcohol in stores. He pledged to use non-domestic rates to “boost business” and sought to reset the relationship with the private sector through a New Deal.

Retailers ask for support from new First Minister after weak April

There has been progress on red tape. The mothballed Regulatory Review Group has been reinstated and is making its presence felt on the practical concerns of business. Business impact assessments are being revamped and officials are in the throes of mapping out the intended future regulations which will........

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