John Swinney

They are often doing so with misinformation.

I’m horrified that a good, respectable business like Jahangir has been referred to in this fashion by Zia Yusuf and I think it’s totally and utterly unacceptable.

I think this is just the operating model of Reform, which is to incite racial hatred in our society.

We tried to minimise those costs.

Obviously, when flights have got to be booked, when there's intense pressure on the time involved, then the costs are likely to be higher.

While I regret the redundancies that are being taken forward, it’s vital that the yard is sustainable and the contracts from the Scottish Government will assist in that process.

The Government obviously has a policy in relation to not pursuing compulsory redundancies and we do not want to see that applied in these circumstances.

Our £50 million Homelessness Prevention Fund will help to build up capacity of communities and public services to act earlier, supporting people before situations become critical and embedding prevention across organisations that interact…

The Scottish Government will continue to do all we can to prevent homelessness happening in the first place – working closely with charities, partners and local authorities in pursuit of that aim.

The Scottish Government’s priority is always to help people experiencing homelessness access settled, permanent housing as quickly as possible.

My government will continue to do all it can to support communities, challenge prejudice and build a fairer Scotland.

Tackling racism requires a sustained effort from government, our partners, the third sector and society as a whole, and we are committed to delivering on that.

Bringing together partners today will allow us to take stock and identify priorities for the coming months.

My government will always stand in solidarity with communities to ensure everyone feels safe and respected.

Any and all forms of hatred, extremism and racism are completely unacceptable and have no place in Scotland.

I think we need a fresh start with independence … I urge everyone, whatever their views on our ultimate destiny as a nation, to ensure that the people of Scotland’s right to decide is respected: not just in words, but in actions.

The fund will help them cope with challenging circumstances and support them to thrive.

Island businesses were too often held back by circumstances outside their control.

From delivering critical infrastructure to offering opportunities for small businesses, these projects will support employment, generate revenue and improve community wellbeing.

Our island communities have so much potential, and this funding will help them pursue ambitions rooted in local priorities, strengthening their long-term resilience and prosperity.

Many commentators, who made many hard comments, must now consider the impact of their words.

This is a deeply concerning and very sad case which has raised many issues.

My thoughts are with Jason Arday’s family, and everyone close to him, at this tremendously difficult time.

I will continue to follow developments closely and would encourage all those involved to do everything possible to safeguard this important Perth business.

The Scottish Prison Service is now taking practical steps to implement the consequences of that judgment.