CONFERENCE 18

2-3 MARCH 2018 EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER

I am delighted to welcome you to this year’s Scottish Conservative Conference. As we meet together in Aberdeen, we can be proud of the outstanding results we enjoyed across the north-east of in the general election last year, with the region sending its first Conservative & Unionist representatives to Westminster for 20 years. That success was replicated in many other Scottish constituencies and in last May’s local elections. Thanks to your efforts on the campaign trail, and the leadership of , we secured an historic breakthrough in Scotland. Thank you for all the hard work and long hours you put in. As a result, our Scottish Conservative MPs are delivering for the people of Scotland. In less than a year in Westminster, they have achieved more for Scotland than the SNP – including helping to secure an additional £2 billion of extra spending power for Scotland in the Budget. And our MSPs are taking the fight to the SNP in the too, highlighting the damage that they are doing to Scotland’s economy with higher taxes than the rest of the . When I stood on the steps of Downing Street in July 2016, I spoke of my personal commitment to protecting and strengthening our precious Union of Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland. That commitment remains stronger than ever. We will foster a country by tackling the challenges we face and building a Britain that is fit for the future. That means getting a deal that works for the whole of the United Kingdom – ensuring that as powers are repatriated from Brussels, the right ones are passed to the Scottish Parliament. But Brexit will not be the limit of our ambitions. We also have to carry on making a difference here and now on the issues that matter to people’s daily lives. By delivering on this, we can create a country with a stronger economy and a fairer society, one that will guarantee a better future for the next generation. We can only do this with your support – so thank you. I hope you have a very enjoyable Conference.

A MESSAGE FROM THE RT HON RUTH DAVIDSON MSP Welcome to Aberdeen for the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party’s 2018 Conference. We are meeting after a year of continued electoral success for our party and I want to thank you for the part you have played in this. Following our breakthrough at the 2016 Scottish Parliament elections, at which we became the largest opposition party at Holyrood, 2017 saw substantial Scottish Conservative and Unionist gains at the Council elections as well as a dozen gains across Scotland at the general election in June. From the Borders to Banffshire, and in six out of seven constituencies in the North East, Scottish Conservative MPs are now working hard on behalf of their constituents and on behalf of all of Scotland in the House of Commons. In Westminster, the Scottish Parliament and in council chambers across Scotland, we have a strong and energetic team of Scottish Conservative and Unionist representatives, dedicated to delivering for Scotland, and I am proud to lead them. So our conference this year will be an opportunity to celebrate our success of the last year. But - most importantly - it will also be firmly focussed on the challenges facing Scotland and the solutions we propose. With standards in too many of Scotland’s schools slipping, with growth in the Scottish economy lagging behind the rest of the UK and with the Scottish NHS under increasing pressure, it’s clear the SNP government are failing. All of this is taking place under the shadow of ’s threat to put Scotland through another independence referendum. Scotland deserves better than this. We are determined to work hard in our local communities as well as argue our case nationally for a change in direction. Our priorities of raising school standards, supporting business to grow the Scottish economy and securing investment for our essential public services enjoy significant support across the country. This is the positive and ambitious vision for Scotland we will take to every voter in the country. Scotland deserves no less. Welcome to Conference

A MESSAGE FROM RICHARD WILKINSON Conference Convener

Welcome to Aberdeen! What better place to hold our 2018 Conference than in the North East where we made such spectacular gains at the General Election last year, defeating a former SNP First Minister of Scotland and an SNP Westminster Parliamentary Leader. We hold six out of the seven North East Westminster seats and have Scottish Conservative MPs as well from the Borders, the South West and West of Scotland and Central Scotland. Well done to them all. We also greatly increased our Council representation in the fantastic local elections resulting in Conservative Councillors in all parts of Scotland. They will now carry forward the Conservative voice at local level and I am sure be the forerunners of future gains to take control of Councils. None of this would have been possible without the people to stand as candidates, win or lose, and the dedication and hard work of all our volunteers throughout Scotland who gave up so much time to campaigning. Thank you to all of you who worked so hard and continue to do so whether Association Chairmen and women, Executive Council members, candidates, activists and supporters. One member who will be sadly missed this year is Marjory Borthwick, who tragically passed away last year. Particular thanks are due to Gordon Wallace Brown, George Carr and Charles Kennedy, our Regional Conveners in the West, North and East regions of the Party who have led their regions through a busy time. As I come to the end of my first term as Conference Convener, I look back on a demanding time which has seen the Party, under the excellent leadership of Ruth Davidson, go from 15 to 31 MSPs, 1 to 13 MPs and from 115 to 276 councillors. In the past year alone I have attended the Highland, North East and West Conferences as well as Scottish and National Conventions, Conferences in , Cardiff and Manchester and meetings of the Management Board in , representing you, the members and volunteers. I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting party members from Inverness to the Borders. On behalf of you all, I give a huge thanks to our Party Director, Mark McInnes, and his staff in Central Office and to the Regional Campaign Managers for all their hard work and dedication. I also particularly thank Victoria Roberts and Matt Edmonds who have worked so hard to deliver this Conference. In last year’s message I wrote that a conference is an opportunity to re-charge your battery, be inspired and encouraged and to contribute to the energy of the Party. I think you certainly did that since look at what we achieved just a few weeks later! So once again, make the most of the Conference and what it has to offer and, above all, enjoy it!

ROBERT C B FORMAN MBE WS Chairman’s Annual Report

I am very pleased to welcome you to Aberdeen for this year’s Party Conference.

Following our great success in 2016 at the Scottish Parliament Election, 2017 was another very successful year for the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party.

Last May we more than doubled our number of Councillors at the Local Government Elections and now have Councillors in every local authority in mainland Scotland. The Party overtook Labour to become the second largest party of Local Government. Many areas across Scotland from West Dunbartonshire and Midlothian to Highland and the Western Isles now have Scottish Conservative Councillors for the first time in many years. Here in Aberdeen we went from having 2 Councillors prior to the election to now having 11 and are joint leaders in the Council Administration. With Conservative Councillors working hard in their local communities and championing Conservative values across Scotland there is every reason to be optimistic for the Party’s future.

In the midst of the Local Government Elections the snap General Election was called. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all Associations and our Candidates for stepping up at short notice to campaign in what was a transformational election for the Party in Scotland. In June last year we elected thirteen MPs and managed to unseat the very major players of the SNP, and . There are areas in Scotland such as Clackmannanshire and Cumnock which have a Conservative and Unionist MP for the first time in over half a century. With 6 out of 7 seats, we now have more MPs in the North East of Scotland than any other Party. My congratulations go to , , , Bill Grant, Paul Masterton, , Luke Graham, Kirstene Hair, Andrew Bowie, , , David Duguid and Douglas Ross on their excellent results. These results hammered home the message to Nicola Sturgeon that Scotland does not want a second independence referendum.

In my work as Chairman I have met many Party members from across Scotland at various campaign days and fundraising functions. I always enjoy meeting Party members so please do get in touch with me if I can be of any help.

Finally I would like to express my thanks to my colleagues on the Party’s Management Board and the staff at Central Office who have ably assisted me as Chairman and also I would like to thank you, our Party members and activists, for all that you have done and all that you continue to do for the Party – it is very much appreciated. There have been quite a few changes in 72 years.

Through it all we’ve been producing some great

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HH Tory Ad 2018.indd 1 09/02/2018 11:48 THE PARTY MANAGEMENT BOARD 2017/18

Chairman Robert C B Forman MBE WS

Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Rt Hon Ruth Davidson MSP

Conference Convener Richard Wilkinson

Treasurer Bryan Johnston

Honorary Secretary Leonard Wallace

Regional Convener East of Scotland Councillor Charles Kennedy

Regional Convener North of Scotland Councillor George Carr

Regional Convener West of Scotland Gordon Wallace Brown

WESTMINSTER POLITICAL REPORT Rt Hon David Mundell MP Secretary of State for Scotland A very warm welcome to Scottish Conference. Writing the Westminster report for our gathering this time last year, I described the previous 12 months as ‘extraordinary’. And so they were, with a historic decision to leave the EU and a change of Prime Minister. But after the year we’ve just had I now find myself reaching for the Thesaurus. How can I sum up what it means to have seen the performance of the last year? The election in June produced our best result in nearly 40 years. From being the sole Scottish Conservative at Westminster I have been joined by 12 talented and energetic colleagues. Our success was built on three things: inspirational leadership, hard-work and a simple, clear message. We campaigned unambiguously against Nicola Sturgeon’s plan for an unwanted and divisive second referendum on independence. We told her to drop her demand – and get on with the day job she was elected to do. It was a message people wanted to hear and our candidates and activists carried it onto the streets with gusto. Ruth Davidson led the charge with passion, wit, and unstoppable energy. I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to our new MPs. And on behalf of the whole party, I want – yet again – to place on record my thanks to Ruth, whose leadership continues to take us from strength to strength. From our best ever Holyrood result in 2016 to our best Westminster result in four decades last year: those achievements speak for themselves. Ruth has soared head and shoulders above her opponents as Scotland’s most popular politician. We are lucky to have her. At Westminster, Scotland’s new Conservative MPs have already made their mark. They have established themselves as local champions in their constituencies and effective parliamentarians in the House of Commons. And it has become clear a bloc of 13 Scottish Conservatives achieves more than the noisy ranks of 56 SNP MPs ever did. In November, we welcomed a Budget that brought huge benefits to Scotland: * Fresh support for our oil industry. * A freeze on whisky duty to help our most important exporter. * Fixing the SNP’s mess by scrapping VAT bills for our police and fire services. * A renewed commitment to our programme of transformative City Deals. * A £2billion boost for the Scottish Government’s budget. It was a great Budget for Scotland. It showed that our group of committed new MPs, by lobbying persuasively behind the scenes, get results. The SNP could only shout from the sidelines. Our success should not just be measured in securing the best financial deal for Scotland, important though that is. Those victories in June stopped Nicola Sturgeon’s dash for a second referendum in its tracks. It was the prize that many of those who voted for us wanted most.

But I have been dismayed – though not surprised – that she is already back to her old tricks. I fear we will face a fresh call for a vote on leaving the UK in the months ahead but I remain as determined as ever to fight back and stand up for the majority of Scots who dread another, damaging bout of constitutional skirmishing. Now is the time to pull together, to focus on the most important facing the UK: securing the best possible deal as we leave the EU. Not forcing another unwanted independence referendum on the people of Scotland. Our Prime Minister has made good progress, achieving agreement on the first phase of negotiations as she promised. We enter talks on our future relationship with the EU with a clear vision of continued trade, co- operation and friendship. At the Scotland Office, my priority has been to ensure we will bring back powers from Brussels in a way that strengthens devolution but avoids damaging the vitally important UK internal market - which is worth four times as much to Scottish business as our exports to the EU. To ensure Scotland’s voice is heard, we have been listening to businesses from all sectors of the Scottish economy. On this, I would particularly like to thank my colleague Lord Duncan, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, who has travelled the length and breadth of Scotland to see fishermen in Shetland and farmers in the Borders, and people from all walks of life at all points between. Amid the focus on Brexit, it could have been easy to lose sight of our other work. We are pushing ahead with more City Deals for Scotland, which will see more transformational investment poured from the UK Government into Scotland’s great cities and regions. We are also working to ensure powers devolved under the 2016 Scotland Act are transferred smoothly and seamlessly to Holyrood. That work has progressed well, with further welfare powers moving to Holyrood over the past 12 months. This is fulfilling our promise to make Holyrood one of the most powerful devolved parliaments in the world. This transfer of power is already changing Scottish politics, with a more accountable Scottish Government having to answer for decisions on more areas of tax and welfare than ever before. And they are being found out: from their failures on education and their anti-business decision to hike taxes to their overriding obsession with independence, this is an SNP administration that has simply had its day. We Scottish Conservatives can look forward to the next year with strength and confidence. So my message this year is simple: over the next three years, we can lay the foundations to be elected as Scotland’s government, and we in Westminster will play our part. Let’s get to it.

European Parliament Report Report from Nosheena Mobarik MEP

It’s fantastic that this year’s conference is taking place in this great city of Aberdeen. One of the best parts about being an MEP for Scotland is that I get to travel around so many beautiful parts of the country regularly. In my short time as your new MEP I’ve been to Inverness, Perth, Orkney, and Aberdeen. Being your Conservative MEP during this critical time for our country is a privilege. It is wonderful to be here in the north east where our party performed so magnificently in the recent Westminster and Scottish Council elections. The Scottish Conservatives now represent six of the seven local Parliamentary constituencies, which is a phenomenal achievement. Many congratulations to Ross Thomson in Aberdeen South; David Duguid in Banff and Buchan; Colin Clark in Gordon; Douglas Ross in Moray; Andrew Bowie in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine and Kirstene Hair in Angus. In Aberdeen North, we managed to increase our vote there by more than 10%, while the SNP lost in excess of 15%. 2017 was not only a success story for our Westminster parliamentary party but for our fantastic and hardworking councillors across Scotland too. In the local elections in May, we gained nine seats to become the largest party in Aberdeenshire, with eight seats in Aberdeen City and five in Moray. Congratulations to everyone who worked so hard to secure such fantastic victories. I’d also like to mention Paul Masterton in my own area of East Renfrewshire. Paul and the team worked incredibly hard before the election and continue to do so since our victory there. It’s always important to take stock and celebrate but we must also turn our focus to the challenges our country faces and address them at this conference.

HIGH STAKES NEGOTIATIONS As you would expect, being an MEP means Brexit takes up a bit of thinking time. The future of Scottish fishing is one of the most important issues facing us post-Brexit and there’s a lot of work to do to secure the outcome our fishermen and industry deserve. For too many years, our quota has been held-back and restricted in comparison to our non-EU neighbours. Iceland, for example, retains 90% of its Total Allowable Catch and Norway retains 85%. In stark comparison, the UK retains just over 40%. Non-UK EU fishing vessels catch 60% of their catch in British waters. Brexit provides us with an opportunity to right this historic wrong. After Brexit, we should aim to be an independent coastal state in control of our waters and fisheries regulation. I serve on the PECH Committee, which governs fishing policy in the European Parliament. Having met many representatives from Scotland’s fishing industry in recent months and discussed their hopes and fears, I have taken their message to Brussels. Under international law the UK will have the right to control all its fishing grounds within 200 nautical miles of our shores. Unsurprisingly, the best fishing grounds found around Britain are on our Scottish coast. The UK alone must be able to determine how much EU fishing vessels can catch in our waters in the future. This presents a huge conflict of interest to the SNP government in Holyrood. The SNP wants Scotland to remain in the EU with no chance to take advantage of the opportunities we have in our grasp. The UK’s fishing industry currently accounts for around one-half of one per cent of GDP, equating to three quarters of a billion pounds annually. However, this figure could double post-Brexit and the increase would boost local economies in Scotland’s coastal communities and the country as a whole. It is a future certainly worth fighting for and I am doing just that.

PASSIONATE ABOUT BUSINESS Of course, many of you may best know me for my work in business. Fishing has become something of a new passion, but I’m just as committed to empowering Scotland’s business community - particularly SMEs - as ever. In the European Parliament I am able to do this as a member the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee. Until now there has been little discussion on the committee about the detail of Brexit. The committee has been continuing it legislative agenda as normal. Once we leave the all of the new legislation the committee passes will be transferred into British law so it is important British MEPs continue to work diligently to make sure we can influence this the best we can. As we enter the second phase of negotiations about the UK’s future relationship with the EU - particularly around trade and the single market - the committee will be able to really delve into the detail. One thing that’s clear: our trade and supply chains are incredibly interlinked and I’ll be making the case that we need to continue to have as much mutual free access to each other’s markets as possible. We need to ensure that we protect jobs and trade on both sides of the Channel and each side has as much to lose if we do not come to a sensible agreement. Every country needs successful trade and business to generate taxes that governments need for our vital public services and security. In the European Parliament, my impression of colleagues is that although they are saddened and disappointed by our departure, they do not harbour ill-will towards the UK, as is often portrayed in the press. Past experience has taught me that businesses are incredibly adaptable. Whilst many politicians quibble, businesses will be working hard to foster relationships and find new opportunities. It’s our job as politicians to be responsible and make sure we work hard to get the right deal for business.

GET IN TOUCH If any of you would like to get in touch with me then please email me on [email protected]. I would be delighted to hear from you and if any of you wish to visit the European Parliament whilst we are still there then please let me know! I look forward to hearing from you and catching up with as many of you as possible. I wish you all a very successful conference.

Local Government Report Cllr Cameron Rose Chairman, Scottish Conservative Councillors’ Association Winning just under 22% of the 1,227 Council seats in May ‘17 was a fantastic result, more than doubling the Conservative presence in Council Chambers across the land. In Highlands, Midlothian and North Lanarkshire there are substantial groups where previously there were none. Ranald Fraser became the first Conservative councillor to be elected in the Western Isles.

Still, across the country a sore Labour Party and a fearful SNP combined to keep Conservatives out of most coalitions in administration and that exclusion extended to key positions on COSLA. The very solid advance still needs to be followed by further future gains to ensure our values of efficiency, innovation, financial responsibility and freedom of choice blow fresh air through local government – especially in the delivery of core services.

Nonetheless Conservatives are in governing coalition in seven Councils, including Aberdeenshire, Angus, Argyll & Bute, Moray, Perth & Kinross, Council and Aberdeen. In the last named, Labour councillors chose expulsion from their party in order to join Conservatives in administration.

A clutch of our councillors went on to become MPs in the June election, including Douglas Ross and Colin Clark in the North East rout of the SNP.

But the hard work is under way. The war to deliver efficient local government services, improve education and reduce the barriers of bureaucracy, are all to the fore for every Conservative councillor. This is the service our constituents need and we are determined to build on the recent electoral successes to play our part in the change Scotland needs. Scottish Conservative Candidates’ Board Hamish Mair, Chairman 2017 was a remarkable year for many of our approved candidates. Twelve of them entered the House of Commons for the first time. In some cases this achieved a lifelong ambition after many years of dedication and for others Westminster beckoned sooner than expected. In all cases the willingness to serve Scotland has been reciprocated by the electorate placing their confidence in our candidates. Reports from the House of Commons suggest that we have every reason to be proud of the impact our large and influential group of MPs is making there. Despite the successes of 2016 and 2017 we require more candidates to come forward and win even more seats in both Parliaments. Our successful candidates come from many and varied walks of life. Following selection and with training and experience there are many talented people in Scotland of Conservative instinct who could be effective parliamentarians. Under the inspired leadership of Ruth Davidson the Scottish Tories are back in strength across the breadth of Scotland. If you would like to be part of this revival by standing for parliament in the Scottish Conservative and Unionist interest get in touch with an SCCB representative at conference. We can tell you what is involved and put you on the path to serving Scotland. Conservative Future Scotland James Bundy, Chairman

Conservative Future Scotland is back. 2017 was a year full of events for our members to enjoy. The National Committee of CFS organised and hosted social events in Edinburgh, Glasgow and St Andrews and we also held over 30 national campaigning days across the country. Alongside the success of the events held, CFS had great electoral success with many of members being elected as councillors. CFS also had the joy of seeing two of our members, Kirstene Hair and Ross Thomson, become the Members of Parliament for Angus and Aberdeen South. Yet 2017 was only the beginning of the revival of Conservative Future Scotland. Much more needs to be achieved if we want an active youth wing which prepares the next generation of politicians in our party. I, alongside the National Committee, have come together with a plan which we hope does exactly that. For Conservative Future Scotland to be successful, we need to continue to attract members from every part of the country. We are working to make sure that a youth officer is in place in every local Association. The youth officer’s job in each local Association should be to host events to attract younger members and to coordinate with the CFS National Committee. This will mean an increase of CFS events across the country, with different faces attending.

The appointment of Ben Bradley MP as Vice-Chair for Youth is much welcomed by CFS. Having a dedicated MP to lead the youth organisation of our party throughout the UK will give our young members a huge boost. I’m looking forward to working closely with Ben Bradley MP and we are hoping that in the future we can have joint events with our counterparts in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. Over the next 12 months CFS will look to establish a working relationship with Women2Win Scotland. In CFS, we have many talented young women with an interest in politics and a partnership with Women2Win will allow us to assist our members with training and networking whilst attracting new members. We are determined to give our members every opportunity they can to succeed in politics. To do this, we intend to work on a programme of training in public speaking, canvassing and campaigning, setting up our members for future elections as both candidates and volunteers. Conservative Future Scotland has had a successful year, but we know we can provide more for our members. We have an ambitious and bold plan to do exactly that. Financial Report Bryan Johnston, Treasurer The Party in Scotland ended 2017 in a strong financial position. Despite having had two national elections last year the Party and its Associations managed well with the financial burden placed upon them. I was delighted with the results at the elections last year both at the Local Government elections and the General Election. I would like to thank everyone who donated to election appeals, purchased raffle tickets or organised a fundraising event during 2017. The Party relies on the generosity of its supporters and we really do appreciate each and every donation we receive whether it is donated locally to a branch, an association or to a national appeal. I would like to especially thank the Trustees of the Scottish Unionist Association Trust for the Trust’s considerable financial support in 2017, particularly with support at the General Election. With no elections anticipated this year, 2018 will be an ideal opportunity for the Party and its Associations to build up their financial support. We must make every effort to consolidate the gains made last year and our Parliamentarians and Councillors will need support to build up their incumbencies. The Party will continue to organise national fundraising events and local fundraising must be continued. The weekly draw continues to raise vital funds for the Party. If you are interested in joining the Draw please contact the Draw Office on 0131 524 0040. Finally I would like to thank all Association and Branch Treasurers for their local fundraising efforts and for ensuring the Party meets its legal obligations in good time.

Conservative Womens Scottish Council Report Ashley Baird, Chairman This is my first report to you as Chairman of CWSC following our AGM in February 2017. Over the last year I have had great support from my friends and fellow Office bearers, Nancy Duncan, Liz Rosser and Margaret Stewart. In addition, I have received much appreciated guidance from our Honorary President, Joan Chalmers. We have very sadly lost some CWSC stalwarts this year, and I hope that to follow in their footsteps and make them proud. Over the last year we have had a very busy year, we held a meeting in June however we unfortunately had to cancel our November meeting due to a clash of dates with the Scottish Convention to be held in a hotel across the road! I have also attended meetings of the Conservative Women’s Organisation Executive in London, ably aided by my Vice Chairman, Nancy Duncan who kindly stepped in when I was unable to attend in October. On October 20th we held another successful Annual Autumn Lunch in Perth, I’m sure I speak for all attendees in saying that we all enjoyed listening to Andrew Bowie MP’s tales from Westminster. At Conference last year in Glasgow, our Raffle prize draw and selling our fingerless mitts & gloves to keep campaigners warm whilst fighting the fight on the doorsteps, raised enough money - in addition to our profits from our Annual Lunch - to allow us to donate £1,000 to SCCO to help recoup some expenditure thanks to the elections last year, and £500 to Women2Win Scotland. We hope that our donations will be put to good use, and will help many more new candidates to come through the ranks. I am delighted to report that we have seen an increase in our membership, and are welcoming more new members to our meetings. Our Facebook page has seen an increase in interaction with the wider party audience, and I believe this has encouraged more people to join our group. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Regional Conveners for extending invitations to Regional meetings to enable us to raise awareness that all female Party members are entitled to be a member of CWSC. I wish everyone a successful conference and year ahead! Let’s keep up the good work! EXPANDING HEATHROW WILL HELP TO INCREASE SCOTLAND’S SKILLED J BS

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Morning Session 09:45 - 12:30pm

AGM AND BUSINESS Richard Wilkinson, Conference Convenor Robert C B Forman MBE WS, Chairman of the Party (closed to media)

WELCOME TO ABERDEEN Colin Clark, Member of Parliament for Gordon Ross Thomson, Member of Parliament for Aberdeen South

SCOTLAND’S VOICE AT WESTMINSTER Scottish Conservative MPs are making a strong, positive case for Scotland at the heart of the United Kingdom government. Hear four of our new MPs talk about their work on behalf of Scotland in Westminster. Hosted by MSP, Deputy Leader and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Europe and External Affairs - in conversation with: Bill Grant, Member of Parliament for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock Kirstene Hair, Member of Parliament for Angus Paul Masterton, Member of Parliament for East Renfrewshire Douglas Ross, Member of Parliament for Moray

BARONESS MOBARIK, Member of the European Parliament for Scotland

SUPPORTING SCOTLAND’S NHS Scottish Conservatives support a publicly funded NHS providing quality care for everyone, free at the point of delivery. Hear frontline NHS staff speak about their experiences of working in our health service and about our plans to improve patient care across Scotland. Hosted by MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport. With contributions from MSP, Spokesman on Mental Health, Public Health & Equalities, MSP, Spokesman on Health, Education, Lifestyle & Sport and Kirstene Hair, Member of Parliament for Angus. Contributions from the floor welcome. Conference Agenda - Friday 2nd March

Afternoon Session 14:00 - 16:30

RUTH DAVIDSON MSP, LEADER OF THE SCOTTISH CONSERVATIVE AND UNIONIST PARTY

STRENGTHENING RURAL COMMUNITIES AND PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT Scotland’s rural communities have been neglected by the SNP. Hear how Scottish Conservatives are supporting the rural economy, strengthening rural communities and protecting and enhancing our natural environment. Hosted by Peter Chapman MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity With contributions from Alexander Burnett MSP, Spokesman for Business, Innovation and Energy and Deputy Business Manager, MSP, Spokesman for Jobs, Employability and Training, Colin Clark, Member of Parliament for Gordon, David Duguid, Member of Parliament for Banff and Buchan and Luke Graham, Member of Parliament for Ochil and South Perthshire. Contributions from the floor welcome.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT Scottish Conservative Councillors are working hard on behalf of people right across Scotland. Hear how some of our Councillors are making the case for good quality, value for money services in Scottish council chambers and standing up for the interests of the local communities they represent. Hosted by Alexander Stewart MSP, Spokesman for Local Government.

BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING Hosted by Annie Wells MSP In this, the 100th Anniversary of the Representation of the People’s Act and votes for some women, hear what the Scottish Conservative Party is doing to ensure we increase women’s representation at all elected levels as well as hear some of the challenges they face. Annie Wells is in conversation with MSP, MSP, MSP, Councillor . Conference Agenda - Saturday 3rd March

Morning Session 10:00 - 12:30

KEYNOTE SPEECH

A SCOTTISH ECONOMY THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE With the right policies, Scotland can be the best place to work and do business in the UK. Hear our plans for a broad-based, dynamic economy that delivers more, better paid jobs and improved living standards across Scottish society. Hosted by MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance. With contributions from MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Stephen Kerr, Member of Parliament for , Ross Thomson, Member of Parliament for Aberdeen South and Andrew Bowie, Member of Parliament for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine. Contributions from the floor welcome.

RT HON DAVID MUNDELL MP, Secretary of State for Scotland

BUILDING STRONGER AND SAFER COMMUNITIES Everyone should have the right to a warm, well-maintained and affordable home in a safe, clean environment. Hear some of our ideas to meet Scotland’s housing needs, promote a cleaner environment and strengthen our communities. Hosted by MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, Communities, Social Security and Equalities. With contributions from Donald Cameron MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change, Environment, Land Reform and MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Justice. Contributions from the floor welcome. FRINGE AGENDA - Thursday 1st March Accredited Conference Passes must be worn to every event.

17:30 CIVIC RECEPTION HOSTED BY THE LORD PROVOST OF ABERDEEN On the Occasion of The Scottish Conservative Conference in Aberdeen, The Lord Provost and Members of request the pleasure of your company at a Civic Reception. Drinks Reception and Finger Buffet. Concourse

18:30 CONFERENCE CONVENOR’S RECEPTION Hosted by Mr Richard Wilkinson, Conference Convenor. Refreshments and wine, all representatives welcome. Kindly sponsored by The Scottish Unionist Association Trust. Gordon Suite A

19:30 CONFERENCE DINNER Guest Speaker: A Senior Cabinet Minister Ticket only. For tickets please call 0131 524 0030 or email [email protected] Gordon Suite B FRINGE AGENDA - Friday 2nd March

07:30 NFU SCOTLAND The Good Food Nation and Brexit - A System Fit for Production? In 2018, Scotland will legislate on a Good Food Nation whilst also considering a new system of post-Brexit agricultural support. Can these complement each other? What will be required to develop the right policies for Scottish food producers? Come and join the conversation with NFU Scotland and Edward Mountain MSP. Breakfast rolls provided. Room 10

12:30 CONFERENCE LUNCH Guest Speaker: Robert Jenrick MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Ticket only. For tickets please call 0131 524 0030 or email [email protected] Gordon Suite B

12:30 INVICTA PUBLIC AFFAIRS BUSINESS LUNCH For almost a decade Invicta has been a leading UK public affairs consultancy advising businesses large and small on how to do business with Government. Our focus is on businesses who are investing for growth in the economy. With offices in Newcastle and Glasgow and clients throughout the United Kingdom and elsewhere in Europe, no other company has the same level of understanding of how politics affects business across the nations and regions of the UK. Invicta has a team of skilled employees and advisors able to work with our clients anywhere in the UK. Our client centred approach means that we protect and advance our clients reasonable commercial interests to those in public office with the power to inhibit or accelerate future business growth. Invitation only. Forbes Suite

12:45 BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION SCOTLAND Social Science with BHF Scotland: Join the British Heart Foundation Scotland as we explore some of our world class research on going at Aberdeen University. Researchers from Aberdeen will join to discuss their research and what this means for the future of heart disease in Scotland. Refreshments: Buffet and drinks available. Room 10 12:45 CHEST HEART & STROKE SCOTLAND, AND THE CHARTERED SOCIETY OF PHYSIOTHERAPY Giving back lives: #rehabmatters Rehabilitation and community support means people can get their lives back after a stroke or diagnosis of lung or heart disease but rehabilitation isn’t getting the investment it needs. This session will include a short film about why rehab matters, and health professionals and people affected describing the challenges to receiving rehabilitation. Buffet lunch and refreshments will be available. Room 3/4

12:45 EH99 Introducing EH99—Scotland’s new evidence-based think tank EH99 believes policy should be based on evidence. At the Conference, we will present two current projects: an analysis of how a simplified Scottish taxation system and lower tax rates might yield a higher take; and a tool for interrogating fish catch databases. Refreshments provided. Boardroom

12:45 EUROPEAN CONSERVATIVES AND REFORMIST GROUP Conservative Future Scotland – Vision for Scotland Post-Brexit. Discussion hosted by Baroness Mobarik MEP. Join us to discuss opportunities to develop the economy for and by future generations with leading figures from the Conservative Party and business. Lunch will be provided. Gordon Suite A

12:45 SCOTTISH FISHERMEN’S FEDERATION Fishing and Brexit A Sea of Opportunity: Come along to Fishing and Brexit, Bertie Armstrong from the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation and special guests will explain what Brexit can do for coastal communities. Finger buffet. Room 15/16

12:45 SHELTER SCOTLAND, SCOTTISH FEDERATION OF HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS (SFHA) AND THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF HOUSING SCOTLAND (CIH) The Big Housing Debate Shelter Scotland, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) and the Chartered Institute of Housing Scotland (CIH) will be holding a panel discussion on the housing crisis facing Scotland. Join us to discuss recent targets and changes in housing legislation, but more importantly what the solutions are to the challenges Scotland faces.” Gourmet sandwich lunch Room 9 17:30 CONSERVATIVES IN THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT RECEPTION Hosted by Baroness Mobarik MEP Refreshments and wine, all Party Members welcome Gordon Suite A

17:30 RNIB SCOTLAND Crossed out? At the 2017 General Election only one in four blind and partially sighted voters felt the current system let them vote independently. Join RNIB Scotland to discuss making elections truly inclusive - including ensuring voting and elections materials are accessible and how to encourage more candidates with disabilities to stand. Wine and a buffet will be provided. Room 1

17:30 SCOTTISH CONSERVATIVE COUNCILLORS’ RECEPTION Kindly sponsored by the Scottish Conservative Councillors’ Association. Refreshments and wine. Gallery

17:30 SCOTTISH COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE What is the Conservative Vision for Rural Communities in Scotland? Communities are at the heart of rural life in Scotland. From fishing towns on the coast to villages in the glens, people have shaped the landscape of Scotland and are key to a sustainable future for our countryside and coast. There are many challenges facing rural communities including continued lack of broadband and mobile connectivity, local bank branch closures, as well as the political challenges of land reform and the animal rights agenda. However, there are also opportunities with new agricultural and fishing policies outside the EU, combined with the resilience and innovation of those people who live in some of our most rural areas. This event is an opportunity to discuss how and why the rural way of life should be supported, and the Conservative vision for rural communities in Scotland. Refreshments and wine. Room 9

17:30 THE ENTERPRISE FORUM BUSINESS RECEPTION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ACCA With Ruth Davidson MSP, Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Refreshments provided. Forbes Suite

19:30 CONFERENCE DINNER Guest speaker: Rt Hon Brandon Lewis MP, Chairman of the Conservative Party. Ticket only. For tickets please call 0131 524 0030 or email [email protected] Gordon Suite B 19:30 MEDIA RECEPTION Private Function, invitation only Room 10

21:30 SCOTTISH CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATES’ RECEPTION Private function, invitation only. Kindly sponsored by The Scottish Unionist Association Trust. Room 15/16

21:30 THE TRG AND ELECTORAL REFORM SOCIETY Engaging with Younger Voters: Drinks and discussion with Miles Briggs MSP Please join the TRG, and sponsors the Electoral Reform Society, for post dinner drinks to discuss votes at 16 and how the Conservatives can better engage with the next generation of voters. Wine, beer and soft drinks provided Room 3/4

21:30 WOMEN2WIN SCOTLAND Celebrating the centenary of votes for women. Come and join our elected female representatives as Women2Win Scotland celebrates the Fawcett Centenary. We look at the significance of this milestone on the path towards real gender equality - how far we have come, and how far we have got to go. Generously supported by the Association of British Insurers. Drinks reception. Forbes Suite

22:30 THE BLUE REVUE BIG QUIZ It’s back - it’s different - it’s better.... come along to the Blue Revue Big Quiz, hosted by Jackson Carlaw MSP and Annie Wells MSP. £10 donation - all proceeds to XXXXXXX charity. Thanks to Arran Brewery for their donations in kind and Blueway Productions for donating their technical services. Gordon Suite B

FRINGE AGENDA - Saturday 3rd March

07:30 NASUWT SCOTLAND Come along to NASUWT Scotland’s morning fringe; Sexual harassment and the Sexualisation of women and girls. Pastries, coffee and tea. Room 3/4 Exhibitors

APSE (ASSOCIATION FOR PUBLIC SERVICE EXCELLENCE) APSE is dedicated to promoting excellence in the delivery of frontline services to local communities. Through the APSE network, local authorities and organisations are able to share information and expertise on vital frontline services, ask for advice, and develop new, viable ways forward in an effort to help one another.

CANCER RESEARCH UK Cancer Research UK is the world’s largest independent organisation dedicated to cancer research, supporting research into all aspects of cancer through the work of more than 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses. Last year we spent around £34 million in Scotland on some of the UK’s best science and clinical research.

THE COALFIELDS REGENERATION TRUST CRT works in the heart and soul of our coalfield communities, by investing resources, expertise and knowledge to ensure local people are able to fulfill their potential. Coalfield communities have a strong history of unity and we have galvanised local people enabling them to participate in building a new positive sense of community.

COMMUNITY PHARMACY SCOTLAND CPS is the organisation that represents Scotland’s community pharmacy owners in everything they do. If you want to deliver new or discuss current NHS pharmacy services, we are the people to talk to.

EH99 Introducing EH99—Scotland’s new evidence-based think tank. EH99 believes policy should be based on evidence. At the Conference, we will present two current projects: an analysis of how a simplified Scottish taxation system and lower tax rates might yield a higher take; and a tool for interrogating fish catch databases.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY FIRST Electrical Safety First is a UK-wide charity dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries caused by electrical accidents. We are recognised by government and industry as the leading campaigning charity and technical authority on electrical safety. Our aim is to ensure everyone in Scotland can use electricity safely. Website: www.electricalsafetyfirst. org.uk

THE EQUALITY NETWORK The Equality Network is Scotland’s national lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) equality and human rights charity. THE JOHN MUIR TRUST Four out of five Scots back wild land protection. Scotland’s Planning Bill is a chance to look at how to better protect landscape and the environment – especially Scotland’s Wild Land Areas. It’s also a chance to rebalance the system to give fair weight to local communities’ concerns about planning decisions. www.johnmuirtrust.org

LEAGUE AGAINST CRUEL SPORTS The League Scotland works to end harm to animals for entertainment. We work with supporters from all political parties. In recent years we have encouraged a debate about the success or otherwise of Scottish fox hunting legislation. This led to a critical Government review. Come along to our stand and find out more.

MARIE CURIE Marie Curie provides care and support for people living with a terminal illness, their families and carers. We provide support through our two hospices in Glasgow and Edinburgh, as well as community nursing services across 31 local authority areas. We also provide nationwide support through our information and support service.

NASUWT NASUWT is the fastest growing teachers’ union in Scotland, representing teachers and headteachers from early years to further education. NASUWT has secured significant improvements in pay and working conditions for teachers. Legal and professional services are provided by a network of national, regional and local offices.

ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS OF EDINBURGH The College helps to develop standards of medical care and training, and influences health policy. We ensure that the views and practical clinical experiences of our membership are taken into account by health policymakers throughout the UK. Contact us: [email protected]

RSPB SCOTLAND RSPB Scotland is the charity that promotes the conservation of birds and other wildlife. We carry out scientific research, education, land management and policy advocacy in areas such as agriculture, marine, flooding, planning, energy, forestry, species and habitats, sustainability and Climate Change. Come and say hello! Contact details: Thomas Quinn, Parliamentary Officer. Tel: 0131-317-4100 E-mail: [email protected] www.rspb.org.uk/scotland

THE SCOTTISH FISHERMEN’S FEDERATION Representing Scotland’s Fishermen - The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) was formed in 1973 to preserve and promote the collective interests of Scotland’s fishermen’s associations. www.sff.co.uk THE SCOTTISH POLICE FEDERATION The Scottish Police Federation is the staff association that represents over 99% of the police officers in Scotland; currently over 18,000 members. With a remit for both the welfare of our members and efficiency of the service we are the only statutory consultative body for the police service in Scotland. Contact us; Tel: 0300 303 0027 www.spf.org.uk Follow us on Twitter: @scotspolfed

SCOTTISH WATER Our vision is to be trusted to care for the water on which Scotland depends. We provide a vital service to nearly 2.7 million households and businesses and have three long-term ambitions to support our customers and communities in the decades to come. We would like your views.

SHELTER SCOTLAND Shelter Scotland believes everyone should be entitled to a safe, secure and affordable home. Join us to discuss the challenges facing our services and clients, reflect on recent legislation, and look at what’s needed to tackle Scotland’s housing crisis.

UNISON UNISON is Scotland’s biggest and liveliest public service trade union, representing workers delivering public and related services across Scotland. We represent staff working in local government, health, energy, water, skills and education, transport, police and fire services, community and voluntary sector, and related services.

‘WHEELCHAIRS FOR UKRAINE’ ‘Wheelchairs for Ukraine’ is a young Scottish charity based at Perth Airport Business Park. It delivers wheelchairs and other aids to Ukraine as well as access advice. It will be hosting a 2-day multi-national bilingual conference in Odessa on May 17 and 18 on Disability Access and Equality.

CHILDREN IN SCOTLAND AND YOUTHLINK SCOTLAND Come and be another brick in the wall. Children in Scotland and YouthLink Scotland invite you to join them and take the YOYP Legacy Challenge. Working together, we will ensure the voices of children and young people are heard. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Admission and Security: a 15 minute drive away. The doors to the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC) open at On-site park & ride service offers regular 7.30am on Friday 2nd March. Entry can transport to and from the city centre every be obtained through the security channel 15 minutes during peak times. located at the entrance to the AECC. Vehicle Parking Times and Charges: Please use this entry only. 06.30am – 09.30am free 09.30am – 12.00am £5 per car At peak times, some delays may be inevitable but these will be kept to a Ticket machines are situated at various minimum whilst allowing for appropriate locations in Car Parks 2, 4, 5 and 6 security checks. These checks are done for surrounding the AECC and GE Oil & Gas your safety. Arena. They accept all major credit and debit cards and cash (coins only). Please be patient to allow the necessary Please note machines take exact change security checks to take place. No overnight only; no change will be given. bags / suitcases or large bags can be taken Tickets must be purchased on arrival at into the secure zone of the AECC under any the venue and should be clearly displayed circumstances. inside vehicles. Wardens patrol the car parks and issue fines where valid parking Conference Security Passes: tickets are not displayed. Fines are also Photographic passes are the only issued to cars parking in restricted areas or form of identification that will enable in a disabled bay without the appropriate representatives to enter the Conference blue badge. Please note, cars displaying secure zone. Passes must be worn at all appropriate blue badges do not need to times whilst you are in the Conference pay. This service is operated by Local complex but should be removed when Parking Security Limited. Please note that you leave this area. If you lose your pass vehicles may not be left overnight without please report this to the Accreditation pre-arrangement with the AECC Exhibition Office on 07935 304611 or notify a Party Manager via the Exhibition Organiser. Steward. Late Accreditation: Exhibition Stands: The Accreditation Office is situated at the This is an important part of the Conference Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen Exhibition with many organisations and charities in Centre. Tel: 07935 304611 attendance. They would like to speak to you about their work and campaigns so It will be open as follows: please ensure you visit the exhibitors Thursday 1st March 4.30pm - 8pm during your time at the Conference. Friday 2nd March 8am - 4pm Thank you. Saturday 3rd March 8am – 12.00pm First Aid: Smoking: Any person requiring first aid treatment Under Scottish Law, smoking is strictly should contact a Party Steward or any prohibited in the exhibition hall(s) and must member of AECC staff. take place in the designated outdoor areas. Any reports of smoking indoors should be Mobile Phones: made to the AECC Duty Manager or AECC Please switch off your mobile phone whilst Exhibition Manager immediately. Cigarette in the main Conference Hall. end bins are available at all designated smoking areas and must be used. Getting here: The AECC enjoys excellent road, rail The use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited and air transportation links. The centre is indoors at AECC. positioned adjacent to the A90 trunk road and Aberdeen International Airport is only

Please hand slips to a Steward or email: [email protected] TWO minute contributions only. Contributions are timed by the Chair of the session - so to ensure there is adequate time for others to speak please ensure your contribution lasts no longer than two minutes. Thank you. Speaker Slip

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STRONG LOCAL ECONOMIES

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Business and entrepreneurship has a crucial role to play in delivering fairer, more prosperous, more resilient Scottish local economies.

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