Moray SNP News

MORAY MSP RESPONDS TO SNP SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT BUDGET

Responding to the publication of the SNP Scottish Government this afternoon, Moray’s SNP MSP Richard Lochhead said: 

“The SNP Government has set out a budget that will progress the priorities of the people of Scotland – growing the economy, improving our NHS and public services, eradicating child poverty, and tackling the climate emergency.

“People in Moray and across Scotland will benefit from plans to invest a record £2bn in our NHS, increased capital spend to build 8000 new affordable homes, and the introduction of a Scottish winter fuel payment for every pension in the country.

“The Scottish Government will also increase funding for local councils by more than £1bn, which I hope will be welcomed by Moray Council. The Tory administration must now ensure additional funding is used to safeguard schools, libraries and leisure facilities in their upcoming budget.

“Changes to tax thresholds on income tax will put more money in the pockets of low and middle earners, with the majority of workers in Scotland paying less tax than the rest of the UK.

“At a time when businesses are being hit hard by Labour’s national insurance hikes, the Scottish Government is protecting the small business bonus scheme and supporting the hospitality sector with targeted rates relief. This budget delivers a freeze on the basic property rate and ensures that 95% of non-domestic rate properties pay less tax than anywhere else in the UK.  

“With a minority government it is now imperative that parties across Parliament comes together, puts the people of Scotland first, and delivers on their priorities by voting for this budget.”