The Scottish Government is under pressure to hand over the so-called ‘missing millions’ owed to councils following criticism from opposition MSPs.
In mid-April, the UK Government pledged £155 million in extra cash to Scotland through the Barnett formula after announcing extra emergency funding for councils in England dealing with coronavirus.
The Scottish Government were initially reluctant to hand the money on to councils before finally confirming in early May that they would do so.
Appearing before Holyrood’s Local Government Committee, Scottish local authority chiefs confirmed that they were still waiting for the SNP Government to disperse the funds. Later that day the Scottish Government confirmed it would begin making initial payments
Even when this money is handed over, councils are still expected to be out of pocked by as much as £100 million, putting further pressure on already strained local budgets.
South Scotland MSP Brian Whittle has criticised the Scottish Government for failing to get these funds to councils saying:
“Six weeks after the UK Government announced this extra funding for councils, the Scottish Government is only now, grudgingly beginning to get it where it’s needed.
After years of having their budgets slashed by the SNP, councils were under serious financial pressure and the pandemic has only made the situation worse.
Local authorities across Scotland have worked incredibly hard to keep delivering essential services and I’m grateful to all the council staff who have kept working throughout the lockdown.
This situation is unacceptable and unsustainable for councils. The Scottish Government need to get this cash to councils now and give them the help they deserve.”
