This week's UK Spring Statement should “reject austerity” and
protect public services, Finance Secretary has said.
Ms Robison highlighted concerns about cuts to the welfare system
proposed by the UK Government and warned that public services and
businesses are facing significant costs of meeting the upcoming
rise in employer National Insurance contributions.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday's statement by UK Chancellor of the
Exchequer , Ms Robison said:
“The failed approach of austerity must be rejected, with vital
funding for public services and infrastructure
prioritised. If the Chancellor makes cuts to public spending
then this will affect the funding we have in Scotland.
“Disability organisations have been frank in their fears that
welfare changes will harm the most vulnerable in society. A
proper consultation must be carried out urgently to ensure
people's incomes and wellbeing are protected.
“It is vital that the UK Government works with the Scottish
Government to provide clarity given the potential impact of their
changes on the delivery of our devolved benefits and our
budget.
“These cuts to the support for disabled people comes on top of
the deep concern that remains across the public sector, third
sector and businesses in Scotland about the impact of changes to
employer National Insurance contributions.
“We have estimated that this will cost public services in
Scotland more than £700 million. The additional funding that we
expect to receive, which is yet to be confirmed, falls far short
of this and puts at risk services such as GPs, dentists, social
care and universities. I again call on the Chancellor to fully
fund these additional costs.”
