Commenting as the First Minster tells a summit that youth employment is his top priority, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie MSP said:
Willie Rennie MSP"If youth employment was a top priority for the First Minister then he would have already reversed his cuts to Scotland's colleges with the extra money available from Westminster.
"Colleges are vital for helping people get up and get on especially in the current financial climate. These cuts will mean fewer college places.
"To maximise youth employment in Scotland, the First Minister should also swallow his pride and work closely with the UK Government to promote the Youth Contract.
"The Youth Contract can benefit 16,000 young people in Scotland, helping them gain skills and employment. By promoting this, the Scottish Government can do something positive for young people.
"Promoting the Youth Contract and reversing the cut to colleges should be the top two priorities for the Scottish Government if it is serious about tackling youth unemployment."