Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

LIB DEMS VOTE AGAINST SNP'S 'INADEQUATE' BUDGET

January 14, 2009 5:10 PM

Liberal Democrats have today (Wednesday) voted in the Scottish Parliament against the SNP Government's proposed Budget, calling it "an inadequate response to the economic crisis engulfing Scotland".

This followed the refusal last week of the SNP to even consider Liberal Democrats plans to cut personal tax which would £300 back into the pockets of hard pressed families and individuals

Iain Smith, local MSP for North East Fife said:

"People in here in North East Fife are being hit hard by the current economic situation. Job losses at Kettle Produce, the closure of Curtis Fine Papers and indeed Woolworths are prime examples of this.

"Liberal Democrats are the only party in Scotland calling for a personal tax cut that will put money back into the pockets of these hard pressed families and individuals.

"Today, every MSP in the Scottish Parliament had a chance to stick up for Scots struggling in the face of an economic storm. The SNP's Budget is not the radical solution necessary to support North East Fife and Scotland at this difficult time, which is why we voted no. We remain open to working with the Government, but so far their approach has been worryingly complacent.

"Unlike the other parties, Liberal Democrats will not settle for the scraps from the Government's table, but will continue to challenge Scottish Ministers to make a major change to their spending plans as the process continues.

Commenting, leader of the Liberal Democrats in Scotland Tavish Scott said:

"No other Government, national or devolved, in Western Europe has made such a meager response to this economic storm.

"High streets, businesses and families who are hurting know that the SNP's response is woefully inadequate."

ENDS

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Follow the party's activity on...

  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    iainsmith.org/en/article/2009/129363/lib-dems-vote-against-snp-s-inadequate-budget
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    iainsmith.org/a35Bs

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you choose to join our email list, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us. You do not need to join our email list to complete this form.


    • Generate different image