Digital Transformation at the Heart of Scottish Labour's 2026 Election Manifesto
Scottish Labour has released its 2026 election manifesto, placing digital innovation and skills at the centre of its plans for government. The document, published ahead of the Scottish Parliament Election in May, outlines a comprehensive strategy to modernise the NHS, support businesses through technology adoption, and address the digital divide that leaves many Scots without essential digital skills or access. The pledges reflect a growing recognition that technology is a critical driver of economic growth and public service improvement.
One of the most eye-catching commitments is a dedicated £680 million fund for digital and technological improvements in the National Health Service. This investment is designed to accelerate the rollout of digital health tools and infrastructure, with a goal of ensuring every health board can use Scotland's NHS app within 100 days of the election. The app will allow patients to book appointments, access test results, and communicate with healthcare providers more efficiently. Additionally, the manifesto proposes a virtual hospital programme that enables patients to attend outpatient consultations from their homes, reducing the need for travel and freeing up hospital capacity. A single patient record system is also part of the plan, intended to improve continuity of care and reduce duplication across different parts of the health service.
The manifesto criticises the current state of digital adoption in the NHS, stating that 'for too long, Scotland's NHS has remained stuck in the analogue age'. Scottish Labour promises to realise the benefits of modern technology and digital working, including expanded use of wearable devices that allow patients to monitor chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease without needing to see a GP. Artificial intelligence-enabled scanners are also on the agenda, potentially speeding up diagnostics and improving patient outcomes.
Expanding the Techscaler Network
Outside the health sector, the manifesto focuses heavily on supporting Scotland's technology ecosystem. A key element is the expansion of the Techscaler programme, a network of startup incubators first launched by former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in July 2022. Techscaler centres currently operate in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Stirling, Aberdeen, Dumfries, and Inverness, providing mentoring, workspace, and access to investors for early-stage technology companies. Scottish Labour wants to extend this network to areas with geographical gaps and where it can have the most impact on business growth. The party also promises dedicated support for creative technology businesses, including those in gaming, virtual reality, and digital media.
To help established businesses become more productive, the manifesto pledges £15 million in digital adoption funding. This will support companies in implementing new software, automation tools, or e-commerce platforms, with the aim of boosting efficiency and competitiveness. Alongside this, Scottish Labour vows to launch a single industrial strategy in partnership with businesses, providing a coherent framework for economic development across the country.
Digital Skills Passport and Education Reforms
Perhaps the most innovative proposal is the Digital Skills Passport, a portable digital record of an individual's skills, qualifications, work experience, and training. This passport would be shareable with employers and could be used to move between jobs more easily. It will also be made available to students undertaking apprenticeships, helping them demonstrate their capabilities to potential employers. The passport is intended to reduce friction in the labour market and encourage lifelong learning.
In education, Scottish Labour promises to embed digital skills across the curriculum, ensuring students learn how to ethically use technology and navigate risks associated with artificial intelligence and social media. The party also proposes banning mobile phones in classrooms, arguing that they distract from learning and contribute to poor mental health. Digital playgrounds are another creative idea: public spaces like libraries and museums would be equipped with digital equipment where young people can safely engage with technology and innovation.
Addressing Digital Exclusion
A significant portion of the manifesto is dedicated to tackling digital poverty. Scottish Labour plans to establish a digital mentors network, with volunteers stationed in community spaces such as supermarkets and libraries to offer targeted assistance to people less likely to seek help. The party also says every local authority must identify a digital champion responsible for coordinating digital inclusion policy and connectivity. These measures aim to ensure that no one is left behind as Scotland embraces greater digitisation.
'Digital access and skills are crucial for participation in modern society, but the urgency to tackle digital exclusion has been lost,' the manifesto states. 'We want Scotland to realise the benefits of new technology and digitisation, so Scottish Labour will provide the leadership needed to tackle digital poverty.' The party estimates that its overall plan, including the digital initiatives, could close the economic performance gap and deliver between £600 million and £700 million in additional spending on public services by 2030/31. This growth would come from transforming skills and employability, overhauling planning, increasing innovation, and improving productivity through adoption of new technologies.
The manifesto argues that innovation helps Scottish businesses stay competitive, open new markets, and build resilient local supply chains. 'Technological innovation does not stand still and so neither can Scotland if our growing tech sector is to thrive,' it adds. The pledges represent a comprehensive attempt to position Scotland as a leader in digital government and a hub for technology-led economic growth, while ensuring that the benefits of digitisation are shared widely across society.
Source: ComputerWeekly.com News