SNP in 'charm offensive' of defence contractors
Senior SNP figures are today reported to have launched a charm offensive of defence contractors as part of plans to convince them they can thrive in an independent Scotland.
It is understood that defence companies have been approached to allay fears about the potential break-up of Britain.
The Times also says talks have been held with businesses and trade unions that were vocally opposed to independence during the 2014 referendum campaign as part of a renewed effort to build bridges.
The moves by the SNP have come to light on the same week as the boss of Babcock, the international aerospace, defence and security company, warned the company could relocate its fabrication yard facilities from Scotland.
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Rees-Mogg claims falls in exports due to CV19
Evidence that leaving the EU has damaged UK trade is "few and far between", the Government's Brexit opportunities minister has claimed.
The BBC says Jacob Rees-Mogg, who was handed the new role last week, stated that recent drops in exports had been caused by disruption during Covid.
He argued that Brexit was "already a success" and boosting the economy.
But the Office for Budget Responsibility said there was a Brexit hit to trade with the EU.
The UK left the EU's trading regime in January 2021, 11 months after it left the bloc - with its trade now governed by a post-Brexit trade deal.
Since then, British businesses have experienced additional paperwork and border checks when exporting products to EU countries.
Fishers say livelihoods threatened by offshore wind farms
Shetland fishing chiefs have claimed offshore wind farms and marine protected areas are threatening livelihoods in their industry, reports the Press and Journal.
Fishers are being crowded out of their traditional grounds by a combination of renewable energy developments and "excessive" conservation measures, they said.
These pressures may lead to vast areas of Scottish waters being closed off or subjected to severe restrictions, they warned.
Shetland Fishermen's Association executive officer Daniel Lawson said: "Fishing crews, so vital to Shetland's economy, are being displaced from grounds where fishing has been going on for hundreds of years as part of a so-called 'just transition' that is anything but just.
"Sadly, a climate-smart industry that has among the lowest carbon footprints and lowest food miles of any food producer is in danger of being sacrificed for no good reason.
UK to end 'golden visa' scheme for big investors
Visas offering foreign investors fast-track residency in the UK are expected to be scrapped by the Government, amid pressure over UK links to Russia.
The BBC says a Government source confirmed reports of an announcement next week on Tier 1 investor visas, which offer residency to those spending at least £2m.
The scheme was introduced in 2008 to encourage wealthy people from outside the EU to invest in the UK.
It has been under review for some time, after concerns it is open to abuse.
However, the expected announcement next week comes amid pressure on ministers to cut UK ties to Russia over the threat of invasion to Ukraine.