Reacting to the Scottish Budget Spending Review 2007 the General Secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) Grahame Smith said
“Clearly the SNP Government promised more than it could deliver in a number of key areas. However, this should not completely obscure positive commitment on prescription charges, prison estate and more free school meals and nursery places. The Government must now make clear how, and on what timescale, it will deliver on its unmet aspirations on class sizes and student funding.
“The STUC is concerned at the continuing and unproven assumption that cutting small business rates, without being linked to job related investment, will provide value for money. The impact of these tax cuts must be rigorously monitored and regulated.
“We welcome John Swinney’s recognition that the public sector is a driver for economic growth. We will not, however, accept increased efficiency cuts that result in a deterioration of services. Consequently, we will press the Scottish Government to ensure that the increased efficiency targets and the concordat to cap Council Tax increases will result in quality public services delivered by well motivated, properly remunerated staff.”
ENDS
For further information contact Dave Moxham 0141 337 8100