THE SNP are “in talks” over a deal with the LibDems in a bid to pass the Budget.
The Scottish Sun reported that the LibDems have demanded funding for ferry services in exchange for their support for next month’s Budget.
It comes after a potential deal with the Scottish Greens – who have previously lended their support to Budgets while part of the Bute House Agreement – is no longer guaranteed, although the Government has stressed that talks are still ongoing with all parties.
Finance Secretary Shona Robison (below) is set to deliver the Budget in Holyrood on December 4.
Without enough support, the Budget risks not being passed, with John Swinney saying he has not ruled out a snap election.
The SNP currently run Scotland as a minority administration, needing just two votes from opposition MSPs to pass legislation. The LibDems have four MSPs.
It was reported that the LibDems have demanded the go-ahead for two freight and passenger services in exchange for their support.
The LibDems have two MSPs in Orkney and Shetland, where a “freight-plus” project is currently facing delays.
While a Government source said that no deal had been made as of yet, they added that fast tracking the delayed project would be an “easy option” to win the support of the LibDems.
The ferry deal, reportedly worth around £140 million, would go towards reviving a project for two new £70m ferries.
The ferries – which are for the Northern Isles route run by NorthLink – were due to be in service by 2026 but are still being designed.
Meanwhile, delays continue across the ferry network.
We told how CalMac ferry MV Caledonian Isles could be out of action until March, after the company found further repairs are needed.
MV Caledonian Isles is Arran’s main ferry and was originally due to be back on the water by November 20.
A spokesperson for the First Minister said that discussions were still ongoing with all parties.
