Scottish budget

The Scottish TUC (STUC) gave a cautious welcome to the Budget Spending Review put forward by the SNP government in Scotland last month. Grahame Smith, general secretary said: “Clearly the SNP government promised more than it could deliver in a number of key areas. However, this should not completely obscure positive commitments on prescription charges, prison estate and more free school meals and nursery places.”

He welcomed recognition by John Swinney, cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth, that the public sector is a driver for economic growth, but rejected efficiency cuts resulting in the destruction of services. In separate announcements, the STUC welcomed the Scottish government’s “ambitious” economic strategy and its commitment of almost £4.25 million over the next three years to union learning.