MSPs vote against plans to abolish HIE board

MSPs have this evening voted to oppose Scottish Government plans to abolish the board of Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The vote followed a debate on the matter, led by Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron, who put forward the motion to retain the HIE board.

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur also spoke in defense of the board during the debate. Commenting afterwards he said: “Businesses and communities across the region have fought to retain an agency with a laser-like focus on their needs. Today is their victory.

“SNP Ministers now face a test. Will they respect the will of Parliament or blunder on with a ‘we know best’ approach?

“People and businesses in the Highlands & Islands will be watching closely.”