Scottish Conservatives make the budget better - again

Scottish Conservatives have secured measures in today's budget worth £385m to boost the Scottish economy and protect jobs, and will be voting for it as a result.

Annabel Goldie MSP, Scottish Conservative Leader, says:

"Every paper, every day is now reporting the searing effects of Labour's recession. This budget had to do three things: be realistic about the severe consequences of Labour's legacy of debt, plan accordingly and continue to help Scotland to weather the economic storm.

"That is why it was vital that the Scottish Government accepted Conservative proposals for a transparency revolution in public spending. This alone could save the public purse millions of pounds.

"And Scotland cannot duck the tough decisions. That is why it is essential that we set up an independent review group to take a no holds barred look at public spending. That needs open minds and different thinking.

"Conservatives have long argued that a uniform business rate is essential to keep Scottish business competitive within the UK. I am delighted that this budget protects that position because the private sector is the engine of economic recovery.

"In previous budgets the Conservatives have cut or abolished business rates for tens of thousands of small local businesses. The FSB estimates that this has saved 1 in 8 of them from going bust. So I am delighted that in this budget we have maintained and substantially enhanced that support

"Together these measures, worth an estimated £385m, will provide a major boost to the Scottish economy, support local businesses and protect jobs the length and breadth of Scotland.

"For the third year running, the Conservatives have made the Scottish budget better."

Back to all posts