Atos Origin stated at a recent roundtable that the savings due to be made through the Operational Effectiveness Programme (OEP) will, without doubt, be insufficient to cover the Public Sector shortfall. It estimates that at least as much is required again.

People who traditionally find it difficult to enjoy and participate in Scotland's cultural and creative life can do so if activities are better planned and co-ordinated at local level.

An extended consultation period would give the Western Isles task force set up to oppose plans that threaten 125 jobs vital extra time to make its case, John Swinney said today.

Commenting on news that up to 500 workers in Scotland face the prospect of losing their jobs at drinks firm Diageo, Finance Secretary John Swinney said:

New figures show the decline in manufactured exports from Scotland is easing, Finance Secretary John Swinney said today.

A new proposed Measure outlining changes for greater consistency and fairness in local authority charging for non-residential social services across Wales has been announced by the Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas.

Deputy Minister for Skills John Griffiths today outlined the progress being made in relation to post-16 education provision across Wales. Following the launch of the Welsh Assembly Government’s policy ‘Transforming Education and Training Provision in Wales’ last September, post-16 providers across Wales have brought forward proposals.

The £19.3million Assembly Government-funded hospital will serve north Meirionnydd and east Dwyfor and replace Bron y Garth Hospital at Penrhyndeudraeth and Porthmadog Health Clinic.

Deputy Minister for Social Services, Gwenda Thomas announced her plans to implement the next phase of the mandatory registration of the Social Care Workforce in Wales in the interest of public protection.

Two contracts, together worth £231M, have been awarded to General Dynamics UK to upgrade the UK Armed Forces’ Bowman military communications system, the Ministry of Defence announced today.