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Scotland’s Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, has issued a warning about the difficult decisions facing the Scottish government in the upcoming budget, while defending the current levels of taxation. Somerville emphasized that those with “the broadest shoulders” will continue to bear a greater tax burden, a policy that allows many public services to remain either free or more affordable compared to other parts of the UK. The forthcoming budget, expected to be announced by Finance Secretary Shona Robison, will outline how approximately £60 billion will be allocated and whether any adjustments to the tax system will be made.
During an appearance on BBC Scotland’s Sunday Show, Somerville was questioned about plans to address a £5 billion funding shortfall projected by Scotland’s auditor general by the end of the decade. She acknowledged the challenge but stressed that the government intends to maintain its focus on key priorities such as further improving the NHS. She stated, “Yes, the NHS has challenges, it’s turned a corner, but we know we need to invest further. And we know that we need to do more to tackle child poverty, and that’s exactly what you’ll see on Tuesday.” Somerville highlighted that despite some taxpayers facing higher charges, there are benefits to this approach, including free prescriptions and tuition fees, which she described as an important offer to the people of Scotland.
In contrast, Scottish Conservative finance spokesperson Craig Hoy criticized the government for imposing “high tax for the many, not the few.” Speaking on the same program, Hoy claimed that due to “stealth taxes” and stagnant tax thresholds, many lower and middle-income earners are now being pushed into paying the higher rate of tax, which he called unfair. Additionally, Hoy accused the Scottish government of losing control over welfare spending, particularly regarding adult mental health payments, and called for closer scrutiny to avoid people being unnecessarily kept on benefits. His party is advocating for £900 million in tax cuts, arguing that such reductions would stimulate economic growth and help sustain public services.
Following Somerville’s interview, Scottish Labour’s finance spokesperson Michael Marra criticized the SNP’s handling of public finances, accusing the party of denial over the harm it has caused. Marra remarked, “No amount of empty platitudes and dodgy data can hide the SNP’s woeful record. Scots are paying more and getting less under the SNP and this budget will only continue the broken status quo.” Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Shona Robison is scheduled to present the draft budget to Members of the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood on Tuesday at 14:00
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