Local MSP Maree Todd, SNP has welcomed the passing at Stage 2 of the Draft Scottish Budget. Successful negotiations between the SNP and the Scottish Greens resulting in changes ensured the Bill would receive enough support in the Scottish Parliament to be passed. It will now progress to Stage 3 for its final vote on 21st of February.

Maree Todd said:

“With the UK government in complete chaos, the SNP in government are offering certainty and stability with a budget which protects public services, supports the economy, and helps build a fairer country.

“This budget uses our powers in a progressive way in order to protect and invest in our public services – with a major boost for the NHS.

“Giving our schools, hospitals and other vital services in Orkney the money they need to deliver better services for our communities is vital to this government. That is why I welcome Holyrood’s support for the budget.”

The 2019 – 2020 funding for Orkney

Other features of the Scottish Budget:

• £160 million for health and social care investment in local authorities to support social care and mental health measures
• Allow local authorities the flexibility to increase the council tax by 3% in real terms
• Commence consultation on a local visitor tax
• Devolve Non-Domestic Rates Empty Property Relief to local authorities in time for the next revaluation
• Increase core resource local government settlement by £90 million