Shadow Finance Secretary Donald Cameron is backing Argyll and Bute Council’s proposals to support the local economy.

Mr Cameron, a Highlands and Islands MSP, said: “It is very encouraging that the Council is looking ahead and, with its limited resources, making plans to help local businesses lead the recovery out of lockdown.

“I welcome the flexible approach it is taking to funding events which will help kickstart tourism here, which is so important to so many local businesses.

“I believe one lesson that will come out of this emergency is the importance of local organisations such as Argyll and Bute Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, which are rooted in the region and understand the distinctive challenges and requirements of businesses operating here.

“The SNP Government now needs to work in partnership with them, and the UK Government,  and drop its Holyrood centralising agenda which has downgraded the region’s ability to take action on its own behalf.”