The local Scottish Conservative MSP has warmly welcomed the UK Government budget, announced by new Chancellor Rishi Sunak.
Brian Whittle MSP has welcomed many of the proposals in the budget, including support for the whisky industry and changes to tax thresholds and national insurance that mean Scottish taxpayers are more than £5,200 better off since 2010. Brian, who has been a strong advocate for Scotland’s food and drink sector, also welcomed more funding to help promote Scottish produce around the world.
The South Scotland MSP was also quick to point out that thanks to the spending decisions announced by the Chancellor, Scotland’s budget would rise by an extra £640 million this year in addition to £1.3billion already announced in September last year.
Brian, who is Shadow Minister for Health, also welcomed the announcement of more support for workers and businesses affected by the outbreak of coronavirus. Among the measures are £40 million for rapid research, testing and monitoring the spread of the virus, Statutory Sick Pay from day one for individuals diagnosed with the virus who have to self-isolate, and immediate access to Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance for those not eligible for Statutory Sick Pay.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“There’s a lot in this budget for people in Scotland to be pleased about. The UK Government was elected promising to work for the whole of the UK, not just London and the South East and it’s obvious from this budget that they intend to deliver on that promise.
I look forward to seeing how the Scottish Government choose to make the most of the almost £2billion in additional funding coming to Scotland this year thanks to decisions in this budget.
This budget comes at a difficult time for the UK as the challenge of dealing with the coronavirus outbreak continue to grow. I’m pleased to see that Rishi Sunak is taking decisive action now to ensure public services, individuals and businesses have the support they need to weather the economic disruption.
After another disappointing Scottish budget from the SNP, I’m delighted to see the UK Government showing the ambition we need to kick-start the economy across the UK and make the most of the opportunities open to us.”
