Robison: We Will Protect Public Services Despite Budget Issues

Shona Robison, Scotland's Finance Secretary, addressed the recent Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland (GERS) figures, which revealed a net fiscal deficit of £22.68 billion for 2023-24, an increase from over £18 billion the previous year. In response to concerns about the impact of these financial warnings on public services, Robison emphasized the government's commitment to sustaining essential services, tackling poverty, and investing in net-zero initiatives. However, she acknowledged that difficult decisions regarding budget priorities would be necessary moving forward. Robison indicated that recruitment would be limited to critical areas, such as emergency services, as part of strict financial controls. The Scottish Government plans to collaborate with the public sector to explore "voluntary options" to manage resources effectively, while maintaining a policy against compulsory redundancies. Despite the deficit, total revenue in Scotland rose from £86.9 billion to £88.5 billion, highlighting a complex financial landscape. The Scottish Government's spending per person is notably higher than the UK average, with £20,418 spent on each individual in Scotland. Robison attributed the deficit to decisions made by the UK Government rather than the Scottish Government's financial management. Meanwhile, the Scotland Office underscored the benefits of pooled resources across the UK, asserting that Scots receive £2,417 more per head in public spending compared to the UK average. Critics, including Scottish Labour finance spokesman Michael Marra, questioned the effectiveness of this increased spending, suggesting that Scots deserve to see improved public services in return for the higher expenditure.