Sturgeon Calls On Business Owners To 'Commit To Living Wage'

Nicola Sturgeon will today call on businesses to commit to paying the living wage and promoting fair practices at the launch of a new industry code.

Companies will be encouraged to sign the Scottish Business Pledge, described as a voluntary code for employers to recognise fair and progressive'' policies while boosting productivity.

The First Minister and Finance Secretary John Swinney will meet Ann Budge, chairwoman and chief executive of Heart of Midlothian, as the football club becomes one of the first companies to commit to the pledge.

Mr Swinney said: There is a large body of credible evidence that shows progressive workplace practices, like workforce engagement, taking an active role in the community and investing in innovation, benefit companies through increased productivity, enhanced employee commitment and improved reputation.

With the living wage at its core, the pledge covers issues such as zero hours contracts, investing in young people, pursuing innovation and internationalisation and progressing diversity.

Companies can now make their Scottish Business Pledge to demonstrate their commitment to these values and to delivering them through future plans.

The Scottish Business Pledge should become a badge of pride for Scottish business, sending a clear signal to employees, customers, the supply chain and the wider community that companies have strong growth ambitions and acknowledge their contribution to creating a fairer society.''

Made up of nine parts, companies wanting to commit to the pledge must pay the living wage to all employees over 18 and deliver on at least two other elements while committing to achieving the rest over time.

Ms Budge said: By introducing the living wage across our business, by investing in youth education and staff education, by engaging fully with the community and by working closely with the Foundation of Hearts to introduce fan ownership, we are the perfect match for this initiative.

I am very proud indeed to support the Scottish Business Pledge.''