THE SNP say “constructive” discussions are under way with Labour in town halls as they look to work together to tackle the cost-of-living crisis – but Anas Sarwar’s party has maintained no “formal” coalitions will be formed on councils.
Kelly Parry, the SNP’s local government convener, has said SNP council groups are looking at “innovations that encapsulate elements of Labour’s manifesto priorities”.
And she says they will aim to “work together” to help those struggling with rising costs by topping up local welfare funds and optimising uptake of locally administered benefits like free school meals.
It suggests Labour could be going against their leader Anas Sarwar’s pre-election rhetoric of not forming coalitions with any other parties at local government level.
But the party has told The National there will be no formal partnerships.
However, it has stated Labour councillors will work with other groups “based on the interest of local people”.
Parry said: "I am pleased that discussions are underway, particularly with Labour council colleagues. These are proving constructive and productive.
“This Tory made cost of living crisis is affecting people all over Scotland and councils will be in the front line of helping communities. People want to be assured that their newly elected councillors are putting their needs and interests first. We believe this can best be achieved by working together.
“Our SNP council groups have already been looking at innovations that encapsulate elements of Labour's manifesto priorities to focus local authority efforts on. The aim will be to work together to help mitigate the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on local people and communities. These would top up local welfare funds, optimise uptake of locally administered benefits like free school meals and council tax reduction, and make it cheaper and easier for families to access sport and leisure activities this summer.
"We have also suggested forming a cost-of-living crisis committee or scrutiny panel with Labour and SNP representation on it to steer the local authority through how it responds to the challenges the crisis will present.
“SNP and Labour groups across the country are already showing what can be achieved through positive engagement and dialogue. Deals can be done and arrangements can be reached that will benefit the people we were all elected to serve."
A Scottish Labour spokesperson added: “Any power-sharing agreements will have to be approved by the Scottish Executive Committee.
“There will not be any formal coalitions with any party.
“Scottish Labour Councillors will work with others based on the interest of local people - not party-political stitch-ups.”
