Scotland’s Finance Secretary has urged MSPs to back the Government’s Budget ahead of an initial vote in Holyrood.
The Budget (Scotland) Bill will go before the Holyrood chamber on Thursday for a stage one vote.
Announced in January, the tax and spending plans will lead to – if passed – an increase to the Scottish Child Payment along with the rate of inflation, as well as a boost to £40 per week for those with children under one.
It has also paved the way for a levy on private jets and a so-called “mansion tax” and for a free breakfast club to be formed at every primary school in the country.
Speaking ahead of the vote, Shona Robison said: “This is a Budget focused on the priorities of the people of Scotland – delivering improvements in our NHS and supporting people with the cost of living.
“The Budget will improve access to healthcare with funding for a network of 15 walk-in GP clinics open seven days per week – and provides real help for families with the cost of living crisis.
” Our proposals also mean that 55% of people in Scotland can expect to pay less income tax than in the rest of the UK.
“Our determination to eradicate child poverty is also underlined in this Budget – with an increase in the Scottish Child Payment and the introduction of a premium payment of £40 for eligible children under one.
“The Budget will make lives better for people in Scotland – and I would urge Parliament to back it today.”
