STEVENSON SLAMS IRRESPONSIBLE LIB DEM FAILURE TO PASS BUDGET AND SECURE SCOTTISH JOBS

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has condemned the actions of the Liberal Democrats that have put in jeopardy £1.8 billion of extra funds for Scotland and have put thousands of jobs in danger. At a time when this budget and the funding it would bring are needed most, the Lib Dems have taken the decision to play politics with people’s lives and vote against the SNP budget.

The Liberal Democrats failed to even engage with the budget process, calling as they did for an outrageous £800 million cut to the Scottish budget. Until a budget is passed, Scotland will be unable to draw upon the increased funding that has been put in place for the next financial year – an increase of £1.8 billion that has been put in danger.

Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:

“This recession started with Labour’s economic irresponsibility, and by voting against the budget they have gone to new extremes. By choosing to play politics with much needed investment, money that would have secured thousands of jobs, they have shown that they care nothing about the people of Scotland.

“This budget would have secured funding for another year’s council tax freeze. Instead, Local authorities, health boards and all who rely upon them face uncertainty and confusion.

“The SNP has announced that we will bring another budget bill before parliament as quickly as possible. We want our health boards to be funded, our businesses to be secure and our councils to be supported even though the Lib Dems clearly do not.

“The Lib Dems are happy to endanger our economy and take money out of the pockets of ordinary Scots at a time when they need it most. They should be ashamed of their behaviour and the contempt they have shown for hardworking Scots.”