​MSP COLIN BEATTIE BACKS BUDGET TO DELIVER FOR SCOTLAND & SECURE COVID RECOVERY

TORIES AND LABOUR VOTE AGAINST BUDGET WHICH WOULD PROTECT MIDLOTHIAN AND EAST LOTHIAN ECONOMY
 
MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, Colin Beattie, has voted to pass the Scottish Government’s budget for 2021/22 – securing additional funding for our NHS, education, local government, and other vital frontline services with total investment increasing by £3.8 billion.
 
The amended Budget will ensure the introduction of free school meals for all primary school pupils by August 2022, free bus travel for all under-22s, £15 million for active travel and £10 million for energy efficiency projects.
 
The deal will also include an £800 pay rise for public sector workers earning less than £25,000, a 2% uplift for those earning up to £40,000, and an extra pandemic support payment of £130 for households in receipt of council tax reduction.
 
Commenting, SNP MSP Colin Beattie said:
 
“In the face of Tory cuts to Scotland’s capital grant, the SNP has delivered certainty and stability for our economy with a budget that delivers for every single person who lives in Midlothian and East Lothian.
 
“This budget is being delivered in exceptional circumstances as we continue to battle a pandemic that has shaken our society and economy to the core, and as we face the harmful impacts of a hard Tory Brexit. 
 
“By voting against these plans for stability and certainty for the local economy in Midlothian and East Lothian, Labour and the Tories have shown they aren't remotely interested in doing what’s best for Scotland. They’re far more concerned with launching failing party-political attacks against the SNP.
 
“In contrast, the SNP in government is getting on with the job of delivering for Scotland – with a budget protecting public services in the face of Tory austerity and cuts.
 
“With an election just weeks away, this is a Budget the SNP can be proud to stand on. It’s a good deal for Midlothian and East Lothian and a good deal for Scotland – and I’m delighted it has now received the support of the Scottish Parliament.”