I am delighted to endorse the principles set out in the Compact which will underpin the future relationship between the Government and the voluntary sector in Scotland.

There have, of course, always been strong links between public and voluntary sectors in Scotland. I welcome this but in doing so, I also acknowledge that on the occasions when we choose to work together, it is essential that the independence of the voluntary sector and the accountability of the Government to its electorate is recognised. The Compact marks a milestone in a relationship which has matured over time, based on shared values and common goals. The aim of the Compact is to strengthen that relationship so that, by working together, we can build a better future for the people of Scotland.

The Compact should not, however be viewed as an end in itself. It will be judged a success when it results in a more effective working partnership built on mutual trust and respect. It will facilitate the contact between our two sectors and will operate not just within The Scottish Office but across the whole range of public sector bodies in Scotland. For that reason, I welcome the excellent work done by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (CoSLA) and the voluntary sector to prepare equivalent guidance for use at the local level.

I recognise that there is already a new spirit of partnership between Government and the voluntary sector. It is evident in the very real contribution which voluntary organisations are making in helping to develop and deliver key Government policies such as the New Deal, the Childcare Strategy and the Social Inclusion agenda. The Compact both embodies this new mood and will, I hope, help to promote a closer partnership in the years which lie ahead. As we prepare for the first Parliament to meet in Scotland for almost 300 years, the Compact looks forward to a new era founded on our common purpose of making the process of government more inclusive.