MSPTom hails budget
An MSP insists the Scottish Government’s budget will help protect low and middle income earners.
As the SNP’s budget progresses through the Scottish Parliament, Tom Arthur claims it delivers progressive reform for Scotland’s income tax system.
The Renfrewshire South MSP says the budget will deliver will modest tax rises for high earners and a tax reduction for 70 per cent of taxpayers.
He argues the budget will also deliver an additional £400 million for the NHS, an expansion in childcare, more spending on broadband, extra funding for police and fire services, and a pay rise for hardworking public sector employees.
Mr Arthur said:“This is a budget for a stronger economy and a fairer society – with increased funding for the NHS and protection for low and middle income earners. The Scottish Government is delivering lower income tax for 70 per cent of Scots, with every worker earning less than £33,000 paying less in tax next year – while protecting public services across Renfrewshire that we all hold dear.
“This budget brings an additional £400 million to NHS Scotland, delivers a pay rise for public sector workers, £756 million for affordable homes, additional funding for the arts and culture sector, a £4 billion investment in infrastructure, including in superfast broadband, as well as significant investments in research, education and childcare.
“In the face of massive Westminster cuts, ongoing Tory austerity and a damaging hard Brexit – this budget provides investment to seize the opportunities of tomorrow.”