Software grant for computing firm

The grant will be used to develop new software at IBM's Greenock plant

The computing giant IBM has been given a £1m research and development (R&D) grant by the Scottish Government.

The cash, delivered through Scottish Enterprise, will be used to develop cutting-edge software at the firm's site in Greenock, Inverclyde.

Enterprise Minister Jim Mather said R&D could help the Scottish economy weather problems caused by a global downturn.

IBM has a 57-year association with Scotland and employs almost 2,000 staff at the factory in Greenock.

Announcing the grant award, Mr Mather said: "Every extra pound spent in Scotland's economy could protect a job or save a business in the current climate.

"Scotland has real strengths in innovative research and development and the general R&D grant encourages investment in new ventures, which at this present time will help to position Scotland for a faster and stronger recovery."