SNP ON SECRETARY OF STATE MEETING

SNP ON SECRETARY OF STATE MEETING
LABOUR’S DEBT LEGACY DOMINATES DISCUSSIONS
Commenting on the Scottish Secretary’s appearance before a group of Holyrood Conveners and business managers SNP Chief Whip Brian Adam welcomed his attendance and warned that it was clear from Mr Moore’s comments that Scotland is to face severe budget cuts in the year’s ahead.
Mr Adam, who attended the meeting and questioned the Scottish Secretary on the budget said:
“It was clear from this session that Scotland is in line for severe budget cuts as a result of the economic mess left by the previous Labour Government.
“On economic issues it was crystal clear that we will face unprecedented challenges from these cut backs to deal with the debt built up by Labour.
“In those circumstances it is even more important that we get firm answers on key issues such as the future of the Fossil Fuel Levy.  It was disappointing that the Secretary of State did not have a firmer answer to give Parliament as to when the rules would be amended to give Scotland access to this vital but currently inaccessible fund however I welcome his acceptance that this money is essential and look forward to him confirming a timescale shortly.
“While we await more detailed answers on issues such as student fees, UKBA and the arrival of high speed rail this was a good first step and a welcome change to the approach of previous UK Governments. 
“Unfortunately on Calman the Scottish Secretary’s answers have failed to clarify the financial situation.  In one answer the Secretary of State was implementing the damaging financial package proposed by Calman, in another he accepted it wasn’t set in stone and changes to taxes could change the proposal.  The key to boosting Scotland’s economy and to bringing an end to the economic picture he spelled out of serious budgetary threats as a result of the actions of the Labour Government is real financial responsibility for Holyrood and Mr Moore must be open to that discussion.”