Scottish first minister John Swinney welcomed Sir Keir Starmer to Bute House this weekend, on one of his first engagements following his appointment as the new UK prime minister.

Following an introductory telephone call on Friday, the two leaders met in Edinburgh to discuss their joint commitment on working collaboratively on areas of shared interest.

They discussed a range of issues and areas where both governments could work together, including advancing the Scottish government’s core priorities of eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, prioritising net zero, and the delivery of effective public services, among other topics.

Deputy first minister Kate Forbes and the new secretary of state for Scotland Ian Murray joined the first minister and prime minister for the talks.

“I believe there is an opportunity for collaborative working that can make a difference to people’s lives and I hope to work with Sir Keir’s new government to deliver progress for the benefit of people in Scotland,” said first minister John Swinney.

“Following our talks, I am confident we have established the foundation for a productive relationship between our two governments based on renewed respect for the devolution settlement,” he continued.

In response, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC)—the Scottish business network representing over 12,000 members—has welcomed these discussions, and called for a similar proactive partnership with Scottish businesses.

SCC chief executive Dr Liz Cameron CBE said: “We are encouraged that in the first few days of government, we have had a positive meeting between the new PM Sir Keir Starmer and FM John Swinney as well as the new secretary of state for Scotland Ian Murray MP’s pledge to govern for the whole of the country and deliver economic growth and opportunity for every corner of the four nations.

“Resetting the relationship between Westminster and Holyrood can only benefit voters and businesses across Scotland.”

“We hope our early optimism regarding a more collaborative approach is rewarded with urgent action and a pro-active partnership with business to deliver much needed jobs and more wealth into everyone’s pockets,” Dr Cameron added.

“Confidence in our new government will depend on that.”

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In its 15-point action plan released just before the general election, the SCC advocated for a Joint Economic Growth Board to be established to oversee a programme of pro-enterprise and pro-growth policies, among other business- and economy-focused measures.

“As Scotland’s leading business organisation with 12,000 members we want a seat at that table to ensure our voice is heard and our priorities recognised,” added Dr Cameron.

“Labour has said economic growth is at the heart of its drive to create prosperity and that can’t be done without working closely with the business community to help deliver the most pro-growth policies to turbo-charge investment, innovation, and job creation.”