SNP WELCOMES SUPPORT FOR SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT BORROWING POWERS.

SNP WELCOMES SUPPORT FOR SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT BORROWING POWERS.

Speaking after the debate in the Scottish Parliament today (Thursday) on granting the responsibility to borrow to the Scottish Government SNP MSP Rob Gibson – a member of the Scottish Parliament's Economy, Energy & Tourism Committee – said the tenor and content of the debate proved the case for borrowing powers was now overwhelming.

Commenting Mr Gibson said:

"This debate – along with the long list of organisations outside the Scottish Parliament – shows the case for Scotland to have the responsibility to borrow money to fund important public investments is becoming overwhelming.

"It was a constructive and informative debate which showed that opposition to borrowing powers has little to no grounds to stand on.

"The SNP Government has made clear that there is a compelling case for greater fiscal autonomy for the Scottish Parliament.

"Having the responsibility to manage our own budget is vital in ensuring we are able to respond swiftly and effectively to changes in economic circumstances.

"The economic downturn demonstrates the case for Holyrood to have borrowing powers, which would allow the Scottish Government to take the right decisions to reflate the economy according to our own distinct circumstances.

"The examples of Northern Ireland and local councils having the power to borrow also show that the case against borrowing powers is fundamentally weak.

"Scotland needs additional borrowing power to allow greater flexibility for the Scottish Government in these difficult economic times."