For Immediate Release – Sunday 31st October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
CSR PILES PAIN ON SCOTLAND'S LOCAL AUTHORITIES
CONSTRUCTION SECTOR COULD BE HIT BY RATE RISE
SNP MP and Treasury Spokesperson, Stewart Hosie, has today (Sunday) written to the Chief Secretary of the Treasury, Danny Alexander, seeking immediate confirmation that the UK Government intends to hit public bodies across Scotland with an extra £120m bill to service UK government loans.
In today's Sunday Post it is reported that Para 2.38 of the Spending Review Document, says all new lending from the UK government's Public Work Loan Book is now to be charged at 1% above government gilts. This is expected to raise £1.3bn across the period of the spending review with a cost Scotland's public bodies of an additional £120m in interest payments. The Loan Book is largely used by local authorities to fund building projects.
Commenting, Mr Hosie said:
“This sleekit cut hidden in the Spending Review will pile yet more pain on the public sector bodies across Scotland already having to cope with the UK Government's hard and fast cuts.
“By hiking up the rate of the Public Works Loan Book, the UK Government are hitting the capital investment budgets of local authorities hard – depriving the construction sector of vital income in these tough times. Councils will have to choose between scaling back building projects or cutting other budgets.
“The Scottish economy continued to grow in Q2 and this was largely down to the strong performance of the building industry. It seems the UK Government is determined to pull the rug out from under the Scottish recovery.
“All of this underlines exactly why Scotland must be given financial responsibility over its own affairs – so we can make sensible decisions which protect jobs instead pressing ahead with these flawed measures which will cost them.”
ENDS
About Me
- Bonnyrigg and Loanhead SNP
- Bonnyrigg, Loanhead and District Branch is responsible for SNP activity in the Midlothian Council Bonnyrigg and Midlothian West Council wards. The branch have two sitting Councillors, Cllr Bob Constable (Bonnyrigg) and Cllr Owen Thompson (Midlothian West)
Sunday, 31 October 2010
LABOUR’S MULTI BILLION BUDGET BLACK HOLE REVEALED
For Immediate Release: Sunday 31st October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL / ECONOMIC CORRESPONDENTS
HOUSEHOLDS TARGETED WITH £1.7 BILLION ‘CALMAN TAX’
Policy plans published by Labour in a policy report this weekend reveal a tax double whammy and a massive black hole in their spending plans even before other announcements are added.
This latest tax bombshell comes after Labour confirmed they would increase Council Tax in Scotland.
Now, in order to pay for this new wishlist of pledges, Labour would hit every Scottish household with an additional tax bombshell of almost £3,000 over the next Parliament.
Their new policy proposals, detailed in the report by their Scottish Policy Forum and adopted by their annual conference, include no plans to cut costs. Filling their budget black hole would require a hike in taxes of 5p on Income Tax using Labour’s Calman tax.
Analysis of their policy report reveals:
• £1.7bn in new spending
• The average cost per household would be £738.73 a year or £2,954 over the four years of the next parliament.
• There are no proposals to cut costs in Labour’s policy report.
• To fill their budget black hole would require an income tax rise in Scotland – using Labour’s Calman tax – of 5p in every pound
• This is on top of Labour’s plans for an increase in the Council Tax, delivering a tax double whammy to hard pressed families.
Key proposals and Costs include:
• Reinstate GARL - £188m
• Extend concessionary travel to off peak rail - £25m
• Double Saltire Prize - £10m
• Increase student support - £89m
• Free newspaper for all 18 year olds - £15m
• Abolish PFI hospital car parks - £34.5m
• Right to an apprenticeship - £26m
• Provide recycling bins in shopping centres – £6.7m
• Greater investment in forests - £40m
Despite his own front benchers being members of the individual policy groups, Iain Gray is so spooked by his own party’s plans, that he uses the introduction to try to distance himself from the proposals admitting:
“This document is not a costed list of policies”.
Commenting on the £1.7 billion black hole and Labour’s Calman tax on Scotland Angus Robertson MP said:
“Labour plan to hit households and pensioners with a multi-billion pound tax bill to pay for their uncosted wishlist.
“Only the Labour party could think it acceptable to put forward plans that will cost every Scottish household £3000. After ruining the UK economy they are planning to ruin the economies of every home in Scotland.
"Now we know exactly what Labour mean about imposing a 'basket of taxes' on the people of Scotland. They have produced a £1.7 billion uncosted wishlist of spending pledges at a time when Scotland is dealing with the wreckage Labour caused to the public finances. This document exposes Labour's election campaign as a basket case.
“If Labour are elected they will push Scottish tax bills through the roof. This is yet another case of head in the sand economics from Labour and Iain Gray.
“The SNP has consistently opposed the Calman Tax as unhelpful and damaging to Scotland’s economy. Labour have been desperate for the Calman tax so they can raise it.
“There may well be merit in some of Labour’s ideas but in these tight financial times it is irresponsible to put them forward without clear ideas on how to pay for them.
“All these costs come on top of the £1.3 billion cut from Westminster that Labour are clearly expecting the public to pay for.
“While the SNP is working hard to protect family incomes with plans for a Council Tax freeze for the next two years, Labour want to increase Council Tax and hike income tax by up by 5p.
“Voters now face a simple choice next May between an irresponsible Labour party looking to hit household budgets and an SNP with a track record of protecting family incomes and a commitment to work together with people across Scotland through the tough times ahead.”
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL / ECONOMIC CORRESPONDENTS
HOUSEHOLDS TARGETED WITH £1.7 BILLION ‘CALMAN TAX’
Policy plans published by Labour in a policy report this weekend reveal a tax double whammy and a massive black hole in their spending plans even before other announcements are added.
This latest tax bombshell comes after Labour confirmed they would increase Council Tax in Scotland.
Now, in order to pay for this new wishlist of pledges, Labour would hit every Scottish household with an additional tax bombshell of almost £3,000 over the next Parliament.
Their new policy proposals, detailed in the report by their Scottish Policy Forum and adopted by their annual conference, include no plans to cut costs. Filling their budget black hole would require a hike in taxes of 5p on Income Tax using Labour’s Calman tax.
Analysis of their policy report reveals:
• £1.7bn in new spending
• The average cost per household would be £738.73 a year or £2,954 over the four years of the next parliament.
• There are no proposals to cut costs in Labour’s policy report.
• To fill their budget black hole would require an income tax rise in Scotland – using Labour’s Calman tax – of 5p in every pound
• This is on top of Labour’s plans for an increase in the Council Tax, delivering a tax double whammy to hard pressed families.
Key proposals and Costs include:
• Reinstate GARL - £188m
• Extend concessionary travel to off peak rail - £25m
• Double Saltire Prize - £10m
• Increase student support - £89m
• Free newspaper for all 18 year olds - £15m
• Abolish PFI hospital car parks - £34.5m
• Right to an apprenticeship - £26m
• Provide recycling bins in shopping centres – £6.7m
• Greater investment in forests - £40m
Despite his own front benchers being members of the individual policy groups, Iain Gray is so spooked by his own party’s plans, that he uses the introduction to try to distance himself from the proposals admitting:
“This document is not a costed list of policies”.
Commenting on the £1.7 billion black hole and Labour’s Calman tax on Scotland Angus Robertson MP said:
“Labour plan to hit households and pensioners with a multi-billion pound tax bill to pay for their uncosted wishlist.
“Only the Labour party could think it acceptable to put forward plans that will cost every Scottish household £3000. After ruining the UK economy they are planning to ruin the economies of every home in Scotland.
"Now we know exactly what Labour mean about imposing a 'basket of taxes' on the people of Scotland. They have produced a £1.7 billion uncosted wishlist of spending pledges at a time when Scotland is dealing with the wreckage Labour caused to the public finances. This document exposes Labour's election campaign as a basket case.
“If Labour are elected they will push Scottish tax bills through the roof. This is yet another case of head in the sand economics from Labour and Iain Gray.
“The SNP has consistently opposed the Calman Tax as unhelpful and damaging to Scotland’s economy. Labour have been desperate for the Calman tax so they can raise it.
“There may well be merit in some of Labour’s ideas but in these tight financial times it is irresponsible to put them forward without clear ideas on how to pay for them.
“All these costs come on top of the £1.3 billion cut from Westminster that Labour are clearly expecting the public to pay for.
“While the SNP is working hard to protect family incomes with plans for a Council Tax freeze for the next two years, Labour want to increase Council Tax and hike income tax by up by 5p.
“Voters now face a simple choice next May between an irresponsible Labour party looking to hit household budgets and an SNP with a track record of protecting family incomes and a commitment to work together with people across Scotland through the tough times ahead.”
Saturday, 30 October 2010
TAXATION – WHY WAS THE BIG ISSUE MISSING FROM GRAY’S SPEECH?
For Immediate Release – Saturday 30th October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
WHAT ‘BASKET OF TAXES’ WILL LABOUR USE TO PAY FOR ALL THESE PROMISES ASK SNP?
GRAY DAY TURNS GINGER WITH HARRIET’S BAD HAIR DAY
Commenting on Iain Gray’s speech to the Scottish Labour conference in Oban SNP Election Campaign Director Angus Robertson MP said it failed spectacularly failed to mention how he would pay for the policy announcements he made and didn’t even address the ‘basket of taxes’ Labour threatens Scots families with.
Commenting Mr Robertson said:
“This was a speech that was heavy on pledges and totally empty on how they would pay for them. Iain Gray has promised Scotland a ‘basket of taxes’ so he needs to come clean and tell people what these taxes are.
“The people of Scotland will not be fooled by Labour’s wish-list of un-costed promises. We already know Labour want to hike up council tax and hit family and pensioner incomes just as people come under pressure from increases in VAT and National Insurance from the Tory/LibDem government.
“Yet what exactly are the other taxes in Labour’s basket that Iain Gray wants to hit people with? Would Iain Gray’s proposed national care service take money away from local authorities, so that Labour push up council tax even further?
“By totally failing to mention taxation in this speech Iain Gray only increases the questions about what hidden taxes Labour has planned for the people of Scotland.
“The SNP has a record of freezing council tax and protecting household incomes whilst under Labour council tax increased 60%. No one can take Iain Gray’s promises seriously if he can’t even address the issue of taxation in a keynote address.”
Commenting on Harriet Harman’s apology for calling Danny Alexander a ‘ginger rodent’, Mr Robertson said:
“Iain Gray must be furious at Ms Harman’s behaviour. It will obviously ruin coverage of his speech. A case of a Gray day turning ginger.”
ENDS
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
WHAT ‘BASKET OF TAXES’ WILL LABOUR USE TO PAY FOR ALL THESE PROMISES ASK SNP?
GRAY DAY TURNS GINGER WITH HARRIET’S BAD HAIR DAY
Commenting on Iain Gray’s speech to the Scottish Labour conference in Oban SNP Election Campaign Director Angus Robertson MP said it failed spectacularly failed to mention how he would pay for the policy announcements he made and didn’t even address the ‘basket of taxes’ Labour threatens Scots families with.
Commenting Mr Robertson said:
“This was a speech that was heavy on pledges and totally empty on how they would pay for them. Iain Gray has promised Scotland a ‘basket of taxes’ so he needs to come clean and tell people what these taxes are.
“The people of Scotland will not be fooled by Labour’s wish-list of un-costed promises. We already know Labour want to hike up council tax and hit family and pensioner incomes just as people come under pressure from increases in VAT and National Insurance from the Tory/LibDem government.
“Yet what exactly are the other taxes in Labour’s basket that Iain Gray wants to hit people with? Would Iain Gray’s proposed national care service take money away from local authorities, so that Labour push up council tax even further?
“By totally failing to mention taxation in this speech Iain Gray only increases the questions about what hidden taxes Labour has planned for the people of Scotland.
“The SNP has a record of freezing council tax and protecting household incomes whilst under Labour council tax increased 60%. No one can take Iain Gray’s promises seriously if he can’t even address the issue of taxation in a keynote address.”
Commenting on Harriet Harman’s apology for calling Danny Alexander a ‘ginger rodent’, Mr Robertson said:
“Iain Gray must be furious at Ms Harman’s behaviour. It will obviously ruin coverage of his speech. A case of a Gray day turning ginger.”
ENDS
LONDON TO BANKROLL LABOUR’S SCOTTISH CAMPAIGN
For Immediate Release – Saturday 30th October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
Commenting on Labour’s UK Treasurer’s speech at the Scottish Labour conference the SNP’s Campaign Director Mr Angus Robertson MP said it indicated that Labour were once again to use money from London to bankroll their Scottish Parliament campaign.
Commenting he said:
“This is the clearest indication that Labour are to bankroll their Scottish Parliament campaign with money from London. So much for all the words of letting Labour in Scotland do its own thing.
“The fact is that this shows that Labour in Scotland are still the London Labour party.
“Labour can’t stand on their own feet in Scotland, which is why their campaign is being controlled by London, and by people sent up from London. That is the ultimate vote of no confidence in Mr Gray and Labour in Scotland."
ENDS
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
Commenting on Labour’s UK Treasurer’s speech at the Scottish Labour conference the SNP’s Campaign Director Mr Angus Robertson MP said it indicated that Labour were once again to use money from London to bankroll their Scottish Parliament campaign.
Commenting he said:
“This is the clearest indication that Labour are to bankroll their Scottish Parliament campaign with money from London. So much for all the words of letting Labour in Scotland do its own thing.
“The fact is that this shows that Labour in Scotland are still the London Labour party.
“Labour can’t stand on their own feet in Scotland, which is why their campaign is being controlled by London, and by people sent up from London. That is the ultimate vote of no confidence in Mr Gray and Labour in Scotland."
ENDS
Friday, 29 October 2010
THE ‘ENGENDER FEAR’ GENERATION RETURN
For immediate use: Friday 29th October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
NEW LEADER, SAME OLD BROKEN RECORD
NOTHING OPTIMISTIC ABOUT LABOUR’S CUTS PLAN
‘DEEPER & TOUGHER’ THAN MARGARET THATCHER’S GOVT
Commenting on trails of Ed Miliband’s speech to the Scottish Labour conference in Oban SNP Election Campaign Director Angus Robertson MP said all talk of ‘optimism’ was exposed as hot air after he indicated that they will run a campaign on scaremongering and negativity like they did in 2007.
Mr Robertson said it reflected the leaked memo by Douglas Alexander from the 1999 election where they said they had to “engender fear” in the Scottish population. A campaign Mr Miliband admitted he was involved in.
Commenting Mr Robertson said:
“This was just a return to their 2007 campaign which Henry McLeish described as ‘London based’, ‘very negative’ and ‘extreme’. So much for the promise of optimism?
“Every time Labour are faced with the SNP all they can do is be pessimistic and talk down Scotland. It is interesting that it should be Ed Miliband doing this since he worked on the 1999 election campaign where Labour were caught out saying they wanted to ‘engender fear’ in the Scottish population.
“It’s a case of new leader – same old broken pessimistic record. It just shows that no one can trust a word Labour says.
“Labour will attempt to engender fear. The SNP will continue to set out a positive vision of progress for our nation. Whilst Labour offers the threat of a basket of taxes and council tax rises the SNP has a record of freezing council tax and protecting household incomes.
“We believe in making things better for the people of Scotland and offering a better way out of Westminster imposed cuts. Whilst Labour joins the Tories and LibDems in denying us access to our own resources the SNP is saying Scotland can be better with the tools to do the job.
“Ed Miliband says he is sticking to Alasdair Darling’s plan to make cuts “tougher and deeper” than Margaret Thatcher, and a memo from Labour admits that their plans were little different from the ones imposed by the Tory/LibDem government. The SNP wants to grow Scotland’s economy, not cut it.
“Labour, Iain Gray and Ed Miliband should be explaining why they prefer those Tory cuts and London control of Scottish taxes and spending instead of Scotland having the responsibility to help create jobs and grow the economy. They are prepared to abandon Scotland to years of London Tory control because Labour’s political ambitions lie at Westminster – not in Scotland.”
ENDS
1. A link to an article where Henry McLeish described Labour’s 2007 campaign as ‘London based’, ‘very negative’ and ‘extreme’.
'The Scottish public deserve more than this negative, London-dominated campaign'
http://www.heraldscotland.com/the-scottish-public-deserve-more-than-this-negative-london-dominated-campaign-1.827186
2. A link to an article on Douglas Alexander’s memo is here:
A Labour MP is at the centre of a gaffe row after urging his party to scare Scots away from the SNP.
Douglas Alexander, of Paisley South, made the comment in a leaked document.
He said in the internal party strategy memo: "We have got to engender fear of the SNP... many Labour voters have no fear of independence. They feel they can safely express their Scottish identity by voting for `Scotland's party' without real risk."
http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-60209243.html
3. The Times article on the latest leaked Labour memo on cuts can be accessed here:
http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/politics/article2781669.ece
"Labour has admitted that its economic policy lacks substance and detail, according to a strategy paper seen by The Times.
"The memo also shows that Ed Miliband was warned that the coalition’s cuts to public spending may not be much deeper than those proposed by Alistair Darling."
4. Earlier this month Ed Miliband’s new Shadow Chancellor, Alan Johnson, backed Alistair Darling’s deficit reduction timetable:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2010/oct/08/alan-johnson-backs-darling-timetable
5. That was a plan Alistair Darling set out as "deeper and tougher" than Margaret Thatcher's cuts in the 1980s:
BBC News, Thursday, 25th March 2010
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8587877.stm
Asked by the BBC's Political Editor Nick Robinson to accept the Treasury's own figures suggest deeper, tougher cuts than those implemented by the Thatcher government in the 1980s, Mr Darling replied:
"They will be deeper and tougher - where we make the precise comparison I think is secondary to fact is an acknowledgement that these reductions will be tough".
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
NEW LEADER, SAME OLD BROKEN RECORD
NOTHING OPTIMISTIC ABOUT LABOUR’S CUTS PLAN
‘DEEPER & TOUGHER’ THAN MARGARET THATCHER’S GOVT
Commenting on trails of Ed Miliband’s speech to the Scottish Labour conference in Oban SNP Election Campaign Director Angus Robertson MP said all talk of ‘optimism’ was exposed as hot air after he indicated that they will run a campaign on scaremongering and negativity like they did in 2007.
Mr Robertson said it reflected the leaked memo by Douglas Alexander from the 1999 election where they said they had to “engender fear” in the Scottish population. A campaign Mr Miliband admitted he was involved in.
Commenting Mr Robertson said:
“This was just a return to their 2007 campaign which Henry McLeish described as ‘London based’, ‘very negative’ and ‘extreme’. So much for the promise of optimism?
“Every time Labour are faced with the SNP all they can do is be pessimistic and talk down Scotland. It is interesting that it should be Ed Miliband doing this since he worked on the 1999 election campaign where Labour were caught out saying they wanted to ‘engender fear’ in the Scottish population.
“It’s a case of new leader – same old broken pessimistic record. It just shows that no one can trust a word Labour says.
“Labour will attempt to engender fear. The SNP will continue to set out a positive vision of progress for our nation. Whilst Labour offers the threat of a basket of taxes and council tax rises the SNP has a record of freezing council tax and protecting household incomes.
“We believe in making things better for the people of Scotland and offering a better way out of Westminster imposed cuts. Whilst Labour joins the Tories and LibDems in denying us access to our own resources the SNP is saying Scotland can be better with the tools to do the job.
“Ed Miliband says he is sticking to Alasdair Darling’s plan to make cuts “tougher and deeper” than Margaret Thatcher, and a memo from Labour admits that their plans were little different from the ones imposed by the Tory/LibDem government. The SNP wants to grow Scotland’s economy, not cut it.
“Labour, Iain Gray and Ed Miliband should be explaining why they prefer those Tory cuts and London control of Scottish taxes and spending instead of Scotland having the responsibility to help create jobs and grow the economy. They are prepared to abandon Scotland to years of London Tory control because Labour’s political ambitions lie at Westminster – not in Scotland.”
ENDS
1. A link to an article where Henry McLeish described Labour’s 2007 campaign as ‘London based’, ‘very negative’ and ‘extreme’.
'The Scottish public deserve more than this negative, London-dominated campaign'
http://www.heraldscotland.com/the-scottish-public-deserve-more-than-this-negative-london-dominated-campaign-1.827186
2. A link to an article on Douglas Alexander’s memo is here:
A Labour MP is at the centre of a gaffe row after urging his party to scare Scots away from the SNP.
Douglas Alexander, of Paisley South, made the comment in a leaked document.
He said in the internal party strategy memo: "We have got to engender fear of the SNP... many Labour voters have no fear of independence. They feel they can safely express their Scottish identity by voting for `Scotland's party' without real risk."
http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-60209243.html
3. The Times article on the latest leaked Labour memo on cuts can be accessed here:
http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/politics/article2781669.ece
"Labour has admitted that its economic policy lacks substance and detail, according to a strategy paper seen by The Times.
"The memo also shows that Ed Miliband was warned that the coalition’s cuts to public spending may not be much deeper than those proposed by Alistair Darling."
4. Earlier this month Ed Miliband’s new Shadow Chancellor, Alan Johnson, backed Alistair Darling’s deficit reduction timetable:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2010/oct/08/alan-johnson-backs-darling-timetable
5. That was a plan Alistair Darling set out as "deeper and tougher" than Margaret Thatcher's cuts in the 1980s:
BBC News, Thursday, 25th March 2010
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8587877.stm
Asked by the BBC's Political Editor Nick Robinson to accept the Treasury's own figures suggest deeper, tougher cuts than those implemented by the Thatcher government in the 1980s, Mr Darling replied:
"They will be deeper and tougher - where we make the precise comparison I think is secondary to fact is an acknowledgement that these reductions will be tough".
LABOUR CONFIRM TAX RISE PLAN
For immediate use: Friday 29th October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESK
Labour have today confirmed they plan to increase council tax as Iain Gray’s panic showed through in a BBC interview with an incoherent approach to public sector pay.
The SNP announced two weeks ago that we will freeze council tax for the next two years as we protect family incomes through the tough times ahead.
Commenting on Iain Gray’s announcement SNP Campaign Coordinator Angus Robertson said:
“This news will horrify hard pressed households across Scotland and putscouncil tax at the heart of next year’s election.
“Iain Gray is planning to hike up council tax and hit family incomes just as people come under pressure from increases in VAT, National Insurance and pay restraint in public and private sectors.
“Labour are planning to freeze the pay of low paid public sector workers whilst taking more money off them in council tax. That is fundamentally unfair.
“The SNP has a record of freezing council tax and protecting household incomes, under Labour council tax increased 60%. No one will take claims of a cap seriously.
“As for pay Labour are simply incoherent – senior civil service salaries are set by Westminster Governments and it is Labour that allowed them to increase.
“The SNP has acted fairly on pay, controlling high salaries where we have the power whilst helped the low paid by introducing a living wage for Scottish Government workers – a wage we will expand to the NHS.
“From the first day of Labour conference it is clear it is the SNP setting the policy agenda while Labour are left playing catch up.
“Thousands of families and pensioners across Scotland will be horrified at the thought that Iain Gray plans to take their taxes and freeze their pay all at the same time.”
“There will have to be pay restraint but Iain Gray should be honest about his plans. He will freeze pay and increase taxes.”
ENDS
Attn: NEWSDESK
Labour have today confirmed they plan to increase council tax as Iain Gray’s panic showed through in a BBC interview with an incoherent approach to public sector pay.
The SNP announced two weeks ago that we will freeze council tax for the next two years as we protect family incomes through the tough times ahead.
Commenting on Iain Gray’s announcement SNP Campaign Coordinator Angus Robertson said:
“This news will horrify hard pressed households across Scotland and putscouncil tax at the heart of next year’s election.
“Iain Gray is planning to hike up council tax and hit family incomes just as people come under pressure from increases in VAT, National Insurance and pay restraint in public and private sectors.
“Labour are planning to freeze the pay of low paid public sector workers whilst taking more money off them in council tax. That is fundamentally unfair.
“The SNP has a record of freezing council tax and protecting household incomes, under Labour council tax increased 60%. No one will take claims of a cap seriously.
“As for pay Labour are simply incoherent – senior civil service salaries are set by Westminster Governments and it is Labour that allowed them to increase.
“The SNP has acted fairly on pay, controlling high salaries where we have the power whilst helped the low paid by introducing a living wage for Scottish Government workers – a wage we will expand to the NHS.
“From the first day of Labour conference it is clear it is the SNP setting the policy agenda while Labour are left playing catch up.
“Thousands of families and pensioners across Scotland will be horrified at the thought that Iain Gray plans to take their taxes and freeze their pay all at the same time.”
“There will have to be pay restraint but Iain Gray should be honest about his plans. He will freeze pay and increase taxes.”
ENDS
HAS LABOUR’S ENVIRONMENT SHADOW ACCEPTED NUCLEAR POWER?
For Immediate Release - Friday 29th October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL / ENVIRONMENTAL CORRESPONDENTS
BOYACK CHALLENGED AS NUCLEAR LOBBY WINNING OUT WITH LABOUR
Labour’s Scottish Rural Affairs & Environment spokesperson, Sarah Boyack, has been challenged before her speech to the Labour conference in Oban today (Friday) by SNP MSP Shirley Anne Somerville - a member of the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee - who has asked if she now agreed with nuclear power after Labour’s latest policy document indicated its support for a generation of new nuclear power stations in Scotland.
According to the Report of Labour’s Scottish Policy Forum – “Ideas for a Fairer Scotland” – it says that Labour “believe the SNP are wrong to rule out the building of new nuclear power stations".
Yet even when Labour were in power in Scotland Sarah Boyack was tabling motions criticising nuclear powers and said that new nuclear plants would be inconsistent with environmental sustainability.
Commenting Ms Somerville said:
"Sarah Boyack and a number of other Labour MSPs are among the majority of MSPs opposed to nuclear, not least because the waste issue has never been resolved.
“She must now come clean. Does she support a new generation of nuclear powers stations in Scotland and if she does what has changed her mind?
"The SNP Government's energy position is very clear - we will focus on developing the comparative advantage that Scotland has in clean, green energy. Not only making a better environment but working to create jobs in the growing renewables industry.
“We have passed some of the most ambitious climate change legislation in the world by replacing the targets inherited from the Labour-led Executive with higher targets in both recycling and renewable energy:
“And we have approved more renewable energy applications in our first 18 months than the Labour-led Executive did in four years. The SNP has set a target of 100% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2025. Labour should leave their nuclear ambitions aside and sign up to the green future for Scotland the SNP support.
"The question for Sarah Boyack is one about her credibility. Has she now abandoned those principles she held so dear only a few years ago."
ENDS
Notes:
1. On page 28 of the Report of Labour’s Scottish Policy Forum “Ideas for a Fairer Scotland” it reads:
“We believe the SNP are wrong to rule out the building of new nuclear power stations"
2. Sarah Boyack: Tabled two motions supported by other Labour MSPs (One by Marlyn Glen, Maureen Macmillan and Cathy Peattie who also supported another along with Trish Godman, Pauline McNeill and Kate Maclean)
(A) S2M-4428 Sarah Boyack (Edinburgh Central) (Lab) : The Energy Challenge
That the Parliament believes that the argument for new nuclear build in the United Kingdom has not been made; notes that, even with an accelerated planning system, new nuclear power stations could not contribute either to plugging the "energy gap" or to carbon reductions by 2020 when existing electricity generating capacity is run down and carbon emissions have to be curbed; further notes that existing Scottish electricity generation is provided 22% by gas, 26% by coal, 35% by nuclear and 13% by renewables but that around 17% of electricity generated in Scotland is exported; further notes that massive investment in new infrastructure across the UK is providing for a diversity of gas supply from many countries including Norway, with Russian gas only contributing around 1%, and that new clean coal technologies are now available; also notes that the supply of wind power is growing faster than predicted and that in Germany wind power capacity is already equivalent to UK nuclear capacity; further believes that new nuclear build would be inconsistent with environmental sustainability, adding to the legacy of highly toxic nuclear waste and the huge public cost of decommissioning and storage; urges the Scottish Executive to see the bigger picture in which electricity accounts for just 19% of total energy consumed in Scotland and carbon emissions by sector were last recorded as 17% transport, 11% domestic, 12% business and 37% energy supply, and further urges the Executive to recognise the enormous potential for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by energy efficiency and conservation, greater use of combined heat and power and rapid investment in the full range of renewable technologies, including microgeneration and biomass.
(lodged on 22 May 2006)
Supported by: Mr Brian Adam, Roseanna Cunningham, Marlyn Glen, Christine Grahame, Robin Harper, Mr Adam Ingram, Nora Radcliffe, Mr Mark Ruskell, Tommy Sheridan, Ms Rosemary Byrne, Maureen Macmillan, Chris Ballance, Linda Fabiani, Richard Lochhead, Jean Turner, Rosie Kane, Ms Maureen Watt, Cathy Peattie
(B) S2M-4061 Sarah Boyack (Edinburgh Central) (Lab) : Nuclear Power in Scotland
That the Parliament welcomes the publication of the Sustainable Development Commission's nuclear review which evaluates the contribution of nuclear power in a low carbon economy; acknowledges the survey for BBC Scotland's Energy Week which found that more than 52% of people prefer renewable energy resources and 51% oppose nuclear power stations being built in Scotland; notes the Scottish Executive's current position that there will be no support for the further development of nuclear power stations while waste management issues remain unresolved; believes that underground, retrievable, monitored storage is not a long-term or sustainable solution for nuclear waste; supports the conclusion that nuclear power is not the answer to tackling climate change or security of supply, and urges the maximum use of energy efficiency measures, alongside renewable energy and micro-generation capacity, to meet the energy needs of people in Scotland.
(lodged on 6 March 2006)
Supported by: Mr Brian Adam, Bruce Crawford, Marlyn Glen, Trish Godman, Donald Gorrie, Christine Grahame, Robin Harper, Maureen Macmillan, Pauline McNeill, Nora Radcliffe, Iain Smith, Shiona Baird, Ms Rosemary Byrne, Patrick Harvie, Kate Maclean, Eleanor Scott, Tommy Sheridan, Mr Adam Ingram, Cathy Peattie, Chris Ballance, Mike Pringle, Linda Fabiani, Rosie Kane
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL / ENVIRONMENTAL CORRESPONDENTS
BOYACK CHALLENGED AS NUCLEAR LOBBY WINNING OUT WITH LABOUR
Labour’s Scottish Rural Affairs & Environment spokesperson, Sarah Boyack, has been challenged before her speech to the Labour conference in Oban today (Friday) by SNP MSP Shirley Anne Somerville - a member of the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee - who has asked if she now agreed with nuclear power after Labour’s latest policy document indicated its support for a generation of new nuclear power stations in Scotland.
According to the Report of Labour’s Scottish Policy Forum – “Ideas for a Fairer Scotland” – it says that Labour “believe the SNP are wrong to rule out the building of new nuclear power stations".
Yet even when Labour were in power in Scotland Sarah Boyack was tabling motions criticising nuclear powers and said that new nuclear plants would be inconsistent with environmental sustainability.
Commenting Ms Somerville said:
"Sarah Boyack and a number of other Labour MSPs are among the majority of MSPs opposed to nuclear, not least because the waste issue has never been resolved.
“She must now come clean. Does she support a new generation of nuclear powers stations in Scotland and if she does what has changed her mind?
"The SNP Government's energy position is very clear - we will focus on developing the comparative advantage that Scotland has in clean, green energy. Not only making a better environment but working to create jobs in the growing renewables industry.
“We have passed some of the most ambitious climate change legislation in the world by replacing the targets inherited from the Labour-led Executive with higher targets in both recycling and renewable energy:
“And we have approved more renewable energy applications in our first 18 months than the Labour-led Executive did in four years. The SNP has set a target of 100% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2025. Labour should leave their nuclear ambitions aside and sign up to the green future for Scotland the SNP support.
"The question for Sarah Boyack is one about her credibility. Has she now abandoned those principles she held so dear only a few years ago."
ENDS
Notes:
1. On page 28 of the Report of Labour’s Scottish Policy Forum “Ideas for a Fairer Scotland” it reads:
“We believe the SNP are wrong to rule out the building of new nuclear power stations"
2. Sarah Boyack: Tabled two motions supported by other Labour MSPs (One by Marlyn Glen, Maureen Macmillan and Cathy Peattie who also supported another along with Trish Godman, Pauline McNeill and Kate Maclean)
(A) S2M-4428 Sarah Boyack (Edinburgh Central) (Lab) : The Energy Challenge
That the Parliament believes that the argument for new nuclear build in the United Kingdom has not been made; notes that, even with an accelerated planning system, new nuclear power stations could not contribute either to plugging the "energy gap" or to carbon reductions by 2020 when existing electricity generating capacity is run down and carbon emissions have to be curbed; further notes that existing Scottish electricity generation is provided 22% by gas, 26% by coal, 35% by nuclear and 13% by renewables but that around 17% of electricity generated in Scotland is exported; further notes that massive investment in new infrastructure across the UK is providing for a diversity of gas supply from many countries including Norway, with Russian gas only contributing around 1%, and that new clean coal technologies are now available; also notes that the supply of wind power is growing faster than predicted and that in Germany wind power capacity is already equivalent to UK nuclear capacity; further believes that new nuclear build would be inconsistent with environmental sustainability, adding to the legacy of highly toxic nuclear waste and the huge public cost of decommissioning and storage; urges the Scottish Executive to see the bigger picture in which electricity accounts for just 19% of total energy consumed in Scotland and carbon emissions by sector were last recorded as 17% transport, 11% domestic, 12% business and 37% energy supply, and further urges the Executive to recognise the enormous potential for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by energy efficiency and conservation, greater use of combined heat and power and rapid investment in the full range of renewable technologies, including microgeneration and biomass.
(lodged on 22 May 2006)
Supported by: Mr Brian Adam, Roseanna Cunningham, Marlyn Glen, Christine Grahame, Robin Harper, Mr Adam Ingram, Nora Radcliffe, Mr Mark Ruskell, Tommy Sheridan, Ms Rosemary Byrne, Maureen Macmillan, Chris Ballance, Linda Fabiani, Richard Lochhead, Jean Turner, Rosie Kane, Ms Maureen Watt, Cathy Peattie
(B) S2M-4061 Sarah Boyack (Edinburgh Central) (Lab) : Nuclear Power in Scotland
That the Parliament welcomes the publication of the Sustainable Development Commission's nuclear review which evaluates the contribution of nuclear power in a low carbon economy; acknowledges the survey for BBC Scotland's Energy Week which found that more than 52% of people prefer renewable energy resources and 51% oppose nuclear power stations being built in Scotland; notes the Scottish Executive's current position that there will be no support for the further development of nuclear power stations while waste management issues remain unresolved; believes that underground, retrievable, monitored storage is not a long-term or sustainable solution for nuclear waste; supports the conclusion that nuclear power is not the answer to tackling climate change or security of supply, and urges the maximum use of energy efficiency measures, alongside renewable energy and micro-generation capacity, to meet the energy needs of people in Scotland.
(lodged on 6 March 2006)
Supported by: Mr Brian Adam, Bruce Crawford, Marlyn Glen, Trish Godman, Donald Gorrie, Christine Grahame, Robin Harper, Maureen Macmillan, Pauline McNeill, Nora Radcliffe, Iain Smith, Shiona Baird, Ms Rosemary Byrne, Patrick Harvie, Kate Maclean, Eleanor Scott, Tommy Sheridan, Mr Adam Ingram, Cathy Peattie, Chris Ballance, Mike Pringle, Linda Fabiani, Rosie Kane
GRAY FACES COUNCIL TAX CHALLENGE
For immediate use: Thursday 28th October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
SNP TARGET 100,000 HOUSEHOLDS OVER LABOUR’S CONFERENCE WEEKEND
The SNP will target 100,000 households in seats across Scotland ahead of Labour’s party conference this weekend.
The new leaflet warns of Labour's plans to hike Council Tax ifit wins the 2011 Holyrood elections.
Launching the leaflet today, SNP depute leader Nicola Sturgeon repeated her challenge for Labour to come clean and say by how much Labour plan to raise the Council Tax.
59% of Scots agreed with the SNP in an opinion poll last week that council tax should not increase at a time when families are facing increases in VAT, National Insurance and pay restraint as a result of Labour’s recession and Labour, Lib Dem and Tory spending cuts. Labour have made clear they want councils to increase the council tax.
Launching the leaflet SNP depute leader Nicola Sturgeon MSP said:
“The SNP has set the policy agenda for the coming election and we have clearly heard the priorities of the Scottish public with plans for a council tax freeze to protect family incomes.
"The only thing we know about Labour is they want to put council tax up.
“On council tax, prescription charges, health spending and importantly on the financial situation facing Scotland voters deserve to know what Labour in Scotland intend to do.
“At SNP Conference we set a clear path to the 2011 election, putting forward the priorities we will pursue on behalf of the people of Scotland and inviting people to work with us to make Scotland better.
“If Labour are serious about running for Government it is time they did the same.”
In the message to be delivered this weekend to 100,000 homes across Scotland the SNP state:
“The Council Tax has been frozen in Scotland since 2007. With your Support we can freeze council tax again for another two years.
Inflation and VAT are going up. Salaries are being squeezed. This is no time to put more pressure on family budgets.
And yet, the Labour Party wants to increase your Council Tax. They want you to pay for their mistakes – and pay big. Last time Labour were in government in Scotland Council Tax rose by 60%.
We can’t let this happen again.
Freezing the Council Tax is just one of the SNP’s priorities for the next four years. See what else we want to achieve at bepartofbetter.net.
Together we can protect hard-pressed families and pensioners. Together we can make Scotland better.”
ENDS
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
SNP TARGET 100,000 HOUSEHOLDS OVER LABOUR’S CONFERENCE WEEKEND
The SNP will target 100,000 households in seats across Scotland ahead of Labour’s party conference this weekend.
The new leaflet warns of Labour's plans to hike Council Tax ifit wins the 2011 Holyrood elections.
Launching the leaflet today, SNP depute leader Nicola Sturgeon repeated her challenge for Labour to come clean and say by how much Labour plan to raise the Council Tax.
59% of Scots agreed with the SNP in an opinion poll last week that council tax should not increase at a time when families are facing increases in VAT, National Insurance and pay restraint as a result of Labour’s recession and Labour, Lib Dem and Tory spending cuts. Labour have made clear they want councils to increase the council tax.
Launching the leaflet SNP depute leader Nicola Sturgeon MSP said:
“The SNP has set the policy agenda for the coming election and we have clearly heard the priorities of the Scottish public with plans for a council tax freeze to protect family incomes.
"The only thing we know about Labour is they want to put council tax up.
“On council tax, prescription charges, health spending and importantly on the financial situation facing Scotland voters deserve to know what Labour in Scotland intend to do.
“At SNP Conference we set a clear path to the 2011 election, putting forward the priorities we will pursue on behalf of the people of Scotland and inviting people to work with us to make Scotland better.
“If Labour are serious about running for Government it is time they did the same.”
In the message to be delivered this weekend to 100,000 homes across Scotland the SNP state:
“The Council Tax has been frozen in Scotland since 2007. With your Support we can freeze council tax again for another two years.
Inflation and VAT are going up. Salaries are being squeezed. This is no time to put more pressure on family budgets.
And yet, the Labour Party wants to increase your Council Tax. They want you to pay for their mistakes – and pay big. Last time Labour were in government in Scotland Council Tax rose by 60%.
We can’t let this happen again.
Freezing the Council Tax is just one of the SNP’s priorities for the next four years. See what else we want to achieve at bepartofbetter.net.
Together we can protect hard-pressed families and pensioners. Together we can make Scotland better.”
ENDS
Thursday, 28 October 2010
LABOUR’S TAX DOUBLE WHAMMY
For immediate use: Thursday 28th October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
The SNP have today revealed that Labour are planning a tax double whammy
with more and higher taxes if they are elected to Holyrood next year.
An internal Labour policy document says the Labour party support a “basket of taxes” to keep revenues up. The document also includes a wish list of uncosted spending commitments.
The report of Labour’s Scottish Policy Forum states on page 23:
“Scottish Labour believe that the fairest approach is to have a basket of taxes”
In addition Iain Gray has previously said that council tax shouldincrease, that local authorities should have flexibility to set their own taxes and Labour peer Lord Foulkes has argued for the 3p “tartan tax” to be used.
Two weeks after she first called on Iain Gray to come clean about his tax plans, SNP Depute Leader Nicola Sturgeon has today called on Labour to reveal these new taxes and how much they plan on making from them.
Challenging Iain Gray she said:
“This is a tax bombshell from Labour. Iain Gray is planning to hit Scottish households with a tax double whammy if they get back into office.
“We already know that Iain Gray is on record calling for the Council Tax to go up. Now he wants new taxes as well as higher taxes to pay for their uncosted policy wish list.
“The SNP wants to protect family incomes. Labour want to hit hard pressed Scottish families, forcing them to pay for the public finance mess Labour created.
“Iain Gray owes the public a clear explanation. What new taxes does he want in his basket and how much does he plan on raising with them?
“What is increasingly clear is that Labour simply want to hit taxpayers for more money to get them out of the economic mess they created.”
ENDS
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
The SNP have today revealed that Labour are planning a tax double whammy
with more and higher taxes if they are elected to Holyrood next year.
An internal Labour policy document says the Labour party support a “basket of taxes” to keep revenues up. The document also includes a wish list of uncosted spending commitments.
The report of Labour’s Scottish Policy Forum states on page 23:
“Scottish Labour believe that the fairest approach is to have a basket of taxes”
In addition Iain Gray has previously said that council tax shouldincrease, that local authorities should have flexibility to set their own taxes and Labour peer Lord Foulkes has argued for the 3p “tartan tax” to be used.
Two weeks after she first called on Iain Gray to come clean about his tax plans, SNP Depute Leader Nicola Sturgeon has today called on Labour to reveal these new taxes and how much they plan on making from them.
Challenging Iain Gray she said:
“This is a tax bombshell from Labour. Iain Gray is planning to hit Scottish households with a tax double whammy if they get back into office.
“We already know that Iain Gray is on record calling for the Council Tax to go up. Now he wants new taxes as well as higher taxes to pay for their uncosted policy wish list.
“The SNP wants to protect family incomes. Labour want to hit hard pressed Scottish families, forcing them to pay for the public finance mess Labour created.
“Iain Gray owes the public a clear explanation. What new taxes does he want in his basket and how much does he plan on raising with them?
“What is increasingly clear is that Labour simply want to hit taxpayers for more money to get them out of the economic mess they created.”
ENDS
APPRENTICESHIPS SOAR UNDER SNP GOVERNMENT
For immediate use: Thursday 28th October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
New figures obtained by the SNP from Skills Development Scotland show that the SNP is delivering 20% more apprenticeships this year than Labour did in their final year in administration, calling their commitment to apprenticeship places into question as the SNP reverse the downward trend in apprenticeship places under Labour.
• From 2007-8 to 2009-10 the SNP has increased apprenticeships by 20% from 16930 to 20218.
• In contrast under Labour’s last term in office apprenticeships fell by 20% between 2003 and 2007 from 20,649 to 16930.
• Adult apprenticeships which fell by just over 4000 in Labour’s last term in office from over 11,000 to 7,359 have been increased by the Scottish Government to over 11,000 again.
SNP MSP Christina McKelvie, a member of the Education Committee, who obtained the figures in a Parliamentary answer said:
“The SNP has delivered not just more apprenticeships but apprenticeships that are focussed on jobs for adults and young people.
“Labour’s record on apprenticeships was one of fewer and fewer places each and every year for young people and adults.
“Under the SNP that trend has been reversed even through the recession. We have returned and refocused apprenticeships to a level that allows young people and adults to get the training they need.
“The SNP’s innovative actions during the recession, supporting employers and investing in apprentices have helped people gain skills and learn a trade even when times have been tough for businesses.”
ENDS
1. The answer from Skills Development Scotland to Ms McKelvie's question is below.
2. Attached is a table showing the local breakdown of apprenticeship places.
3. Parliamentary answers detailing the cut in apprenticeships under Labour can be found at the link below. Labour were responsible for setting apprenticeship numbers up to and including 2007/08
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/default.aspx?pq=S3W-21438
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
New figures obtained by the SNP from Skills Development Scotland show that the SNP is delivering 20% more apprenticeships this year than Labour did in their final year in administration, calling their commitment to apprenticeship places into question as the SNP reverse the downward trend in apprenticeship places under Labour.
• From 2007-8 to 2009-10 the SNP has increased apprenticeships by 20% from 16930 to 20218.
• In contrast under Labour’s last term in office apprenticeships fell by 20% between 2003 and 2007 from 20,649 to 16930.
• Adult apprenticeships which fell by just over 4000 in Labour’s last term in office from over 11,000 to 7,359 have been increased by the Scottish Government to over 11,000 again.
SNP MSP Christina McKelvie, a member of the Education Committee, who obtained the figures in a Parliamentary answer said:
“The SNP has delivered not just more apprenticeships but apprenticeships that are focussed on jobs for adults and young people.
“Labour’s record on apprenticeships was one of fewer and fewer places each and every year for young people and adults.
“Under the SNP that trend has been reversed even through the recession. We have returned and refocused apprenticeships to a level that allows young people and adults to get the training they need.
“The SNP’s innovative actions during the recession, supporting employers and investing in apprentices have helped people gain skills and learn a trade even when times have been tough for businesses.”
ENDS
1. The answer from Skills Development Scotland to Ms McKelvie's question is below.
2. Attached is a table showing the local breakdown of apprenticeship places.
3. Parliamentary answers detailing the cut in apprenticeships under Labour can be found at the link below. Labour were responsible for setting apprenticeship numbers up to and including 2007/08
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/Apps2/Business/PQA/default.aspx?pq=S3W-21438
MILIBAND CHALLENGED ON LABOUR’S CUTS
For immediate use: Thursday 28th October 2010
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
LABOUR CUTS LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM CONDEM CUTS – ‘DEEPER & TOUGHER’ THAN THATCHER’S
SCOTLAND’S ECONOMY FAILED BY WESTMINSTER GOVERNMENTS
The SNP today called on Ed Miliband to support Scotland having the full financial and economic powers needed to recover strongly from recession as he was challenged to admit that Labour would have cut Scotland’s budget just as hard as the Tory and Lib Dem government has – as was admitted in a leaked Labour memo this week.
The last Labour Government cut £500 million from Scotland’s budget in 2010-11 and put in place two thirds of the cuts coming Scotland’s way in the next financial year. And only this week a leaked Labour party memo admitted that the Tory/LibDem plans were not much different than those proposed by Alistair Darling earlier this year. It also said that the party’s economic policy “lacks substance”.
The SNP is the only party offering an alternative to a dismal decade of cuts coming Scotland’s way by putting the case for the additional financial and economic powers that would allow Scotland the flexibility to invest in jobs, economic growth and infrastructure to secure a strong
future and the revenues to protect families, communities and public services.
SNP MSP and Chief Whip Brian Adam said:
“The SNP is working hard to minimise the impact of a series of Labour, LibDem and Tory cuts on Scotland’s families, communities and services. But without the financial and economic powers we need to invest properly in economic growth we are faced with the Westminster cuts that are too fast and too deep.
“Labour, Iain Gray and Ed Miliband must explain why they prefer Tory cuts and control of Scottish taxes and spending to Scotland having the responsibility to raise our own finances and spend our own money, to create jobs and grow the economy. They are prepared to abandon Scotland to years of London Tory control because Labour’s political ambitions lie at Westminster – not in Scotland.
“Labour made the first cut to Scotland’s economy knocking £500 million off last year’s budget and they put in place the first two thirds of the cuts Scotland is facing next year that risk seriously damaging the Scottish Government’s ability to invest in the infrastructure that will help our recovery from recession.
“Now Ed Miliband says he is sticking to Alasdair Darling’s plan to make cuts “tougher and deeper” than Margaret Thatcher, and we have a memo from Labour admitting that their plans were little different from the ones imposed by the Tory/LibDem government.
“Labour, Tory or LibDem it is clear that Westminster cannot be trusted with Scotland’s economy and it is only the SNP that has an alternative to the dismal decade of Westminster cuts coming Scotland’s way, with a plan to make Scotland better.”
ENDS
1. The Times article on the leaked labour can be accessed here:
http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/politics/article2781669.ece
"Labour has admitted that its economic policy lacks substance and detail,
according to a strategy paper seen by The Times.
"The memo also shows that Ed Miliband was warned that the coalition’s cuts
to public spending may not be much deeper than those proposed by Alistair
Darling."
2. Earlier this month Ed Miliband’s new Shadow Chancellor, Alan Johnson,
backed Alistair Darling’s deficit reduction timetable:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2010/oct/08/alan-johnson-backs-darling-timetable
3. That was a plan Alistair Darling set out as "deeper and tougher" than
Margaret Thatcher's cuts in the 1980s:
BBC News, Thursday, 25th March 2010
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8587877.stm
Asked by the BBC's Political Editor Nick Robinson to accept the Treasury's
own figures suggest deeper, tougher cuts than those implemented by the
Thatcher government in the 1980s, Mr Darling replied:
"They will be deeper and tougher - where we make the precise comparison I
think is secondary to fact is an acknowledgement that these reductions
will be tough".
Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
LABOUR CUTS LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM CONDEM CUTS – ‘DEEPER & TOUGHER’ THAN THATCHER’S
SCOTLAND’S ECONOMY FAILED BY WESTMINSTER GOVERNMENTS
The SNP today called on Ed Miliband to support Scotland having the full financial and economic powers needed to recover strongly from recession as he was challenged to admit that Labour would have cut Scotland’s budget just as hard as the Tory and Lib Dem government has – as was admitted in a leaked Labour memo this week.
The last Labour Government cut £500 million from Scotland’s budget in 2010-11 and put in place two thirds of the cuts coming Scotland’s way in the next financial year. And only this week a leaked Labour party memo admitted that the Tory/LibDem plans were not much different than those proposed by Alistair Darling earlier this year. It also said that the party’s economic policy “lacks substance”.
The SNP is the only party offering an alternative to a dismal decade of cuts coming Scotland’s way by putting the case for the additional financial and economic powers that would allow Scotland the flexibility to invest in jobs, economic growth and infrastructure to secure a strong
future and the revenues to protect families, communities and public services.
SNP MSP and Chief Whip Brian Adam said:
“The SNP is working hard to minimise the impact of a series of Labour, LibDem and Tory cuts on Scotland’s families, communities and services. But without the financial and economic powers we need to invest properly in economic growth we are faced with the Westminster cuts that are too fast and too deep.
“Labour, Iain Gray and Ed Miliband must explain why they prefer Tory cuts and control of Scottish taxes and spending to Scotland having the responsibility to raise our own finances and spend our own money, to create jobs and grow the economy. They are prepared to abandon Scotland to years of London Tory control because Labour’s political ambitions lie at Westminster – not in Scotland.
“Labour made the first cut to Scotland’s economy knocking £500 million off last year’s budget and they put in place the first two thirds of the cuts Scotland is facing next year that risk seriously damaging the Scottish Government’s ability to invest in the infrastructure that will help our recovery from recession.
“Now Ed Miliband says he is sticking to Alasdair Darling’s plan to make cuts “tougher and deeper” than Margaret Thatcher, and we have a memo from Labour admitting that their plans were little different from the ones imposed by the Tory/LibDem government.
“Labour, Tory or LibDem it is clear that Westminster cannot be trusted with Scotland’s economy and it is only the SNP that has an alternative to the dismal decade of Westminster cuts coming Scotland’s way, with a plan to make Scotland better.”
ENDS
1. The Times article on the leaked labour can be accessed here:
http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/politics/article2781669.ece
"Labour has admitted that its economic policy lacks substance and detail,
according to a strategy paper seen by The Times.
"The memo also shows that Ed Miliband was warned that the coalition’s cuts
to public spending may not be much deeper than those proposed by Alistair
Darling."
2. Earlier this month Ed Miliband’s new Shadow Chancellor, Alan Johnson,
backed Alistair Darling’s deficit reduction timetable:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2010/oct/08/alan-johnson-backs-darling-timetable
3. That was a plan Alistair Darling set out as "deeper and tougher" than
Margaret Thatcher's cuts in the 1980s:
BBC News, Thursday, 25th March 2010
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8587877.stm
Asked by the BBC's Political Editor Nick Robinson to accept the Treasury's
own figures suggest deeper, tougher cuts than those implemented by the
Thatcher government in the 1980s, Mr Darling replied:
"They will be deeper and tougher - where we make the precise comparison I
think is secondary to fact is an acknowledgement that these reductions
will be tough".
Wednesday, 27 October 2010
SNP CONDEMN POST PRIVATISATION PLAN
For immediate release – Wednesday 27 October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
SNP Business and Enterprise spokesperson Mike Weir MP has spoken out against privatisation of Royal Mail today (Wednesday) during the second reading of the Postal Services Bill, warning over the threat to the universal service obligation and the rural post office network.
Mr Weir said:
“It is simply inconceivable that the universal service obligation could survive in its current form after privatisation, and Vince Cable has already indicated that he is prepared to reduce the six day a week service.
“Royal Mail is a vital public service and the maintenance of the Universal Service Obligation is essential for communities and small businesses throughout Scotland. Many small businesses rely on Royal Mail and any threat to it could be disastrous at a time of recession when it is essential to support small local businesses.
“This Bill is totally unworkable and raises more questions than it answers. What it does make clear is how far the Tories and Liberal Democrats are prepared to go, with no upper limit on how much of the business can be sold-off. Even Labour’s Lord Mandelson offered to insert a legislative guarantee that only 33% could be privatised.
“The maintenance of a comprehensive mail delivery service is essential for Scotland and that could best be achieved by keeping the company in public ownership. We have already seen the chaos that has overtaken the Post Office network by the rush to "liberalisation".
“Only this week the government has spoken of the need to increase broadband access in rural areas. All too often the Royal Mail is seen as old fashioned – Postman Pat and his black and white cat touring Greendale as opposed to the brave new world of Broadband. Yes business
in rural areas would benefit enormously from fast broadband access, but you cannot send goods down a telephone line, or a fibre optic cable, unless some entrepreneur comes up with Star Trek transporters we still require a physical delivery service to go up and down dale and glen to pick up and deliver physical objects and, at the moment, the only company that will guarantee to do that is the Royal Mail.
“If we are to encourage the regeneration of our rural areas, to create new jobs in the new green economy then we have to take this on board and do nothing that would undermine this service.
“Royal Mail cannot be viewed as just another company. It provides an essential public service, especially to smaller communities and small businesses who do not have access to alternative carriers.”
ENDS
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
SNP Business and Enterprise spokesperson Mike Weir MP has spoken out against privatisation of Royal Mail today (Wednesday) during the second reading of the Postal Services Bill, warning over the threat to the universal service obligation and the rural post office network.
Mr Weir said:
“It is simply inconceivable that the universal service obligation could survive in its current form after privatisation, and Vince Cable has already indicated that he is prepared to reduce the six day a week service.
“Royal Mail is a vital public service and the maintenance of the Universal Service Obligation is essential for communities and small businesses throughout Scotland. Many small businesses rely on Royal Mail and any threat to it could be disastrous at a time of recession when it is essential to support small local businesses.
“This Bill is totally unworkable and raises more questions than it answers. What it does make clear is how far the Tories and Liberal Democrats are prepared to go, with no upper limit on how much of the business can be sold-off. Even Labour’s Lord Mandelson offered to insert a legislative guarantee that only 33% could be privatised.
“The maintenance of a comprehensive mail delivery service is essential for Scotland and that could best be achieved by keeping the company in public ownership. We have already seen the chaos that has overtaken the Post Office network by the rush to "liberalisation".
“Only this week the government has spoken of the need to increase broadband access in rural areas. All too often the Royal Mail is seen as old fashioned – Postman Pat and his black and white cat touring Greendale as opposed to the brave new world of Broadband. Yes business
in rural areas would benefit enormously from fast broadband access, but you cannot send goods down a telephone line, or a fibre optic cable, unless some entrepreneur comes up with Star Trek transporters we still require a physical delivery service to go up and down dale and glen to pick up and deliver physical objects and, at the moment, the only company that will guarantee to do that is the Royal Mail.
“If we are to encourage the regeneration of our rural areas, to create new jobs in the new green economy then we have to take this on board and do nothing that would undermine this service.
“Royal Mail cannot be viewed as just another company. It provides an essential public service, especially to smaller communities and small businesses who do not have access to alternative carriers.”
ENDS
MSP ‘DISAPPOINTED’ BY PM’S REJECTION OF COMPUTER GAMES TAX BREAKS
For Immediate Release – Wednesday 27 October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick today expressed his ‘disappointment’ that the Tory/LibDem government have failed to take the opportunity to do something constructive for the computer games industry.
The MSP was commenting after Prime Minister David Cameron refused to reconsider the decision not to introduce tax breaks for the industry during today’s Prime Minister’s Questions at Westminster.
Commenting, Joe FitzPatrick said:
“When the Scottish Secretary visited Dundee earlier this month I felt that he was open to the merits of the case and of course the Lib Dems had pledged support to the idea of tax relief for research & development in the computer games industry before the election
“There was also the consultation with business to review the support R&D tax credits provide for innovation which the Treasury had promised they were to hold – this gave us some grounds for optimism. This seems to have come to nothing, so I am disappointed but not entirely surprised.
“I previously welcomed the positive progress before the election where the previous Chancellor, Alistair Darling, gave support to the idea, although he did not allocate any money in Labour’s final budget for it.
“The games industry body, TIGA, has produced figures to show that tax breaks would pay for themselves. They estimated it would cost £195 million but would deliver £415 in tax receipts
“So the games industry has had promises from Labour but nothing at all from the Con Dem Coalition.
“Yet virtually every industry expert has agreed that tax relief for research & development for computer games would create jobs and boost revenue.”
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick today expressed his ‘disappointment’ that the Tory/LibDem government have failed to take the opportunity to do something constructive for the computer games industry.
The MSP was commenting after Prime Minister David Cameron refused to reconsider the decision not to introduce tax breaks for the industry during today’s Prime Minister’s Questions at Westminster.
Commenting, Joe FitzPatrick said:
“When the Scottish Secretary visited Dundee earlier this month I felt that he was open to the merits of the case and of course the Lib Dems had pledged support to the idea of tax relief for research & development in the computer games industry before the election
“There was also the consultation with business to review the support R&D tax credits provide for innovation which the Treasury had promised they were to hold – this gave us some grounds for optimism. This seems to have come to nothing, so I am disappointed but not entirely surprised.
“I previously welcomed the positive progress before the election where the previous Chancellor, Alistair Darling, gave support to the idea, although he did not allocate any money in Labour’s final budget for it.
“The games industry body, TIGA, has produced figures to show that tax breaks would pay for themselves. They estimated it would cost £195 million but would deliver £415 in tax receipts
“So the games industry has had promises from Labour but nothing at all from the Con Dem Coalition.
“Yet virtually every industry expert has agreed that tax relief for research & development for computer games would create jobs and boost revenue.”
SNP MP DEMANDS ASSURANCES OVER FUTURE OF GAELIC BROADCASTING
For Immediate Release – Wednesday 27 October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
SNP MP DEMANDS ASSURANCES OVER FUTURE OF GAELIC BROADCASTING
TORIES MUST SHOW SOME RESPECT OVER BBC ALBA
SNP MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Angus MacNeil, today (Wednesday) called on the Secretary of State for Scotland to give immediate assurances that BBC Alba would not be adversely affected by the cuts proposed to the BBC’s budget. He also called for BBC Alba to be made available on Freeview without further delay.
Commenting, Mr MacNeil said:
“The SNP Scottish Government is right behind BBC Alba – it’s now up to the UK Government to make the same commitment.
“Cuts to S4C programming in Wales underline the threat to Gaelic broadcasting in Scotland. The Scottish Secretary must not allow BBC Alba to be treated with similar contempt as its Welsh counterpart.
“It is unacceptable that the BBC is being allowed to drag its heels over broadcasting BBC Alba on Freeview.
“The ConDem coalition came to power espousing a ‘respect agenda’ for Scotland but there has been little evidence of that to date. If the UK Government is serious about treating Scotland with respect, they must start by committing to long term support of BBC Alba.”
ENDS
Notes:
A transcript of Mr MacNeil’s exchange with the Secretary of State for Scotland;
Angus MacNeil: Mr Speaker, BBC Alba manages to be both local and national television. Its funds are already parsimonious – and only able to broadcast for part of the day. Can we get an assurance from Government that this funding, already to the marrow, will be defended and that the yet further delay of putting BBC Alba onto Freeview will be sorted soon?
Under Secretary of State (David Mundell): The Hon Member will be pleased to know I will be visiting the offices of BBC Alba on a visit to the Western Isles on the 5th of November. In respect of the issue on Freeview, that is clearly a matter for the BBC Trust and as I understand it, they have not made a decision yet.
Attn: NEWS DESKS
POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
SNP MP DEMANDS ASSURANCES OVER FUTURE OF GAELIC BROADCASTING
TORIES MUST SHOW SOME RESPECT OVER BBC ALBA
SNP MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Angus MacNeil, today (Wednesday) called on the Secretary of State for Scotland to give immediate assurances that BBC Alba would not be adversely affected by the cuts proposed to the BBC’s budget. He also called for BBC Alba to be made available on Freeview without further delay.
Commenting, Mr MacNeil said:
“The SNP Scottish Government is right behind BBC Alba – it’s now up to the UK Government to make the same commitment.
“Cuts to S4C programming in Wales underline the threat to Gaelic broadcasting in Scotland. The Scottish Secretary must not allow BBC Alba to be treated with similar contempt as its Welsh counterpart.
“It is unacceptable that the BBC is being allowed to drag its heels over broadcasting BBC Alba on Freeview.
“The ConDem coalition came to power espousing a ‘respect agenda’ for Scotland but there has been little evidence of that to date. If the UK Government is serious about treating Scotland with respect, they must start by committing to long term support of BBC Alba.”
ENDS
Notes:
A transcript of Mr MacNeil’s exchange with the Secretary of State for Scotland;
Angus MacNeil: Mr Speaker, BBC Alba manages to be both local and national television. Its funds are already parsimonious – and only able to broadcast for part of the day. Can we get an assurance from Government that this funding, already to the marrow, will be defended and that the yet further delay of putting BBC Alba onto Freeview will be sorted soon?
Under Secretary of State (David Mundell): The Hon Member will be pleased to know I will be visiting the offices of BBC Alba on a visit to the Western Isles on the 5th of November. In respect of the issue on Freeview, that is clearly a matter for the BBC Trust and as I understand it, they have not made a decision yet.
PRIME MINISTER PRESSED OVER MORAY BASE CLOSURES
For immediate release – Wednesday 27 October 2010
Attn: NEWS DESKS
DEFENCE / POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
BIGGEST JOB LOSSES SINCE TORIES DECIMATED SCOTTISH MANUFACTURING IN 1980s
Raising concerns over the future of RAF Lossiemouth at Prime Minister’s Questions today (Wednesday) Moray MP and Westminster SNP leader Angus Robertson warned that closure of the base would result in the biggest job losses in Scotland since the Tories decimated the Scottish manufacturing industry in the 1980s.
Earlier, at Scottish Questions, Mr Robertson rounded on the failure of the Westminster Government to put in place any resources to mitigate the social and economic impact of the closure of neighbouring RAF Kinloss on the community.
Mr Robertson said:
“Judging from David Cameron’s response these base closures are just a joke for the Tories, but the reality is that we are facing the biggest job losses in Scotland since the Tories decimated the Scottish manufacturing industry in the 1980s.
“This is no laughing matter for people in Moray, not least our service personnel who are currently serving with bravery and distinction in Afghanistan.
“The UK Government must acknowledge the responsibility that they have to the Moray community. One week after the Kinloss closure announcement and there has been no announcement of help or support from the UK Government to mitigate the impact of these devastating cuts.
“We must ensure that the UK Government recognises the incredibly detrimental impact that the decision taken on Kinloss will have and the potential for even greater damage from the upcoming decisions on Lossiemouth.
“If London ministers withdraw the RAF from Lossiemouth they will have cut service numbers in Scotland by more than 25%, compounding the extreme difficulties for Moray resulting from the dubious decision to close RAF Kinloss.
“The UK Government may call this a Defence Review but the reality is an all out offensive against Moray's communities by the Conservative/Lib Dem Coalition. When he became PM, David Cameron promised a Respect Agenda but to date all he has done is treated Scotland with contempt.”
ENDS
Note:
1. A transcript of Mr Robertson’s exchange with the Prime Minister is detailed below:
Angus Robertson: The Prime Minster will decide shortly whether to close RAF Lossiemouth in addition to RAF Kinloss causing the biggest job losses in Scotland since the Tories closed Scottish manufacturing industry in the 1980s. This would mean that Scotland would have fewer service personnel, fewer military bases, aircraft, vessels, army battalions and less defence spending than all our independent Scandinavian neighbours of comparative size. Why is the PM pushing disproportionate defence cuts in Scotland while concentrating defence spending in the south of England?
David Cameron: We are going ahead with the building of the aircraft carriers, which will be built in Scotland. I have to say to the hon. Gentleman if we had an independent Scotland you wouldn’t be flying planes, you’d be flying by the seat of your pants.
2. A transcript of Mr Robertson’s exchange with the Secretary of Scotland is detailed below:
Angus Robertson: Thank you Mr Speaker, the UK Government has known for months the social and economic consequences of defence cuts in Scotland so could the Secretary of State confirm what specific resources were allocated as part of the comprehensive spending review
to mitigate base closures?
Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore): Mr Speaker, I would just like to say to the Hon Gentleman, I welcomed the opportunity to meet with him in Moray last week. I recognise that for him and his constituents, the decisions taken in the defence review as a result of the overall assessment of Britain’s national security, have not been good and I appreciate that there’s a lot of concern about the future.
As I said in Moray and I repeat today, I am happy to work with the Hon Gentleman to ensure we work through the consequences of this.
Angus Robertson: Thank You Mr Speaker, so is the Secretary of State, one week after the closure announcement confirming to the House today that no specific resources have been put in place and no support has been provided by the UK Government on the ground in places like Moray?
Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore): As I made clear to him when we were in Moray and I repeat today, we will work with him, with the taskforce and others who are interested in the future of the Moray bases to ensure that we resolve things as well as possible. Can I reassure him – particularly since he’s raised this issues several times this week – that no decision has been taken over the future of the Tornadoes at RAF Lossiemouth.
Attn: NEWS DESKS
DEFENCE / POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS
BIGGEST JOB LOSSES SINCE TORIES DECIMATED SCOTTISH MANUFACTURING IN 1980s
Raising concerns over the future of RAF Lossiemouth at Prime Minister’s Questions today (Wednesday) Moray MP and Westminster SNP leader Angus Robertson warned that closure of the base would result in the biggest job losses in Scotland since the Tories decimated the Scottish manufacturing industry in the 1980s.
Earlier, at Scottish Questions, Mr Robertson rounded on the failure of the Westminster Government to put in place any resources to mitigate the social and economic impact of the closure of neighbouring RAF Kinloss on the community.
Mr Robertson said:
“Judging from David Cameron’s response these base closures are just a joke for the Tories, but the reality is that we are facing the biggest job losses in Scotland since the Tories decimated the Scottish manufacturing industry in the 1980s.
“This is no laughing matter for people in Moray, not least our service personnel who are currently serving with bravery and distinction in Afghanistan.
“The UK Government must acknowledge the responsibility that they have to the Moray community. One week after the Kinloss closure announcement and there has been no announcement of help or support from the UK Government to mitigate the impact of these devastating cuts.
“We must ensure that the UK Government recognises the incredibly detrimental impact that the decision taken on Kinloss will have and the potential for even greater damage from the upcoming decisions on Lossiemouth.
“If London ministers withdraw the RAF from Lossiemouth they will have cut service numbers in Scotland by more than 25%, compounding the extreme difficulties for Moray resulting from the dubious decision to close RAF Kinloss.
“The UK Government may call this a Defence Review but the reality is an all out offensive against Moray's communities by the Conservative/Lib Dem Coalition. When he became PM, David Cameron promised a Respect Agenda but to date all he has done is treated Scotland with contempt.”
ENDS
Note:
1. A transcript of Mr Robertson’s exchange with the Prime Minister is detailed below:
Angus Robertson: The Prime Minster will decide shortly whether to close RAF Lossiemouth in addition to RAF Kinloss causing the biggest job losses in Scotland since the Tories closed Scottish manufacturing industry in the 1980s. This would mean that Scotland would have fewer service personnel, fewer military bases, aircraft, vessels, army battalions and less defence spending than all our independent Scandinavian neighbours of comparative size. Why is the PM pushing disproportionate defence cuts in Scotland while concentrating defence spending in the south of England?
David Cameron: We are going ahead with the building of the aircraft carriers, which will be built in Scotland. I have to say to the hon. Gentleman if we had an independent Scotland you wouldn’t be flying planes, you’d be flying by the seat of your pants.
2. A transcript of Mr Robertson’s exchange with the Secretary of Scotland is detailed below:
Angus Robertson: Thank you Mr Speaker, the UK Government has known for months the social and economic consequences of defence cuts in Scotland so could the Secretary of State confirm what specific resources were allocated as part of the comprehensive spending review
to mitigate base closures?
Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore): Mr Speaker, I would just like to say to the Hon Gentleman, I welcomed the opportunity to meet with him in Moray last week. I recognise that for him and his constituents, the decisions taken in the defence review as a result of the overall assessment of Britain’s national security, have not been good and I appreciate that there’s a lot of concern about the future.
As I said in Moray and I repeat today, I am happy to work with the Hon Gentleman to ensure we work through the consequences of this.
Angus Robertson: Thank You Mr Speaker, so is the Secretary of State, one week after the closure announcement confirming to the House today that no specific resources have been put in place and no support has been provided by the UK Government on the ground in places like Moray?
Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore): As I made clear to him when we were in Moray and I repeat today, we will work with him, with the taskforce and others who are interested in the future of the Moray bases to ensure that we resolve things as well as possible. Can I reassure him – particularly since he’s raised this issues several times this week – that no decision has been taken over the future of the Tornadoes at RAF Lossiemouth.
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