Highlands and Islands Scottish Conservative MSP Donald Cameron said:
“While I am pleased that as a result of record UK Government funding, it has been possible for key Scottish Conservative demands on income tax and NHS spending to be met in the Scottish budget, the measures for to help businesses and jobs are deeply disappointing."
“Indeed, as the Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce put it, the measures ‘do not go nearly as far enough to avoid risk of widespread business collapse and job losses.’ It seems quite extraordinary that, for instance, the SNP has failed to deliver 100% rates relief for the full year despite having all the funding they need."
“Overall, the failure to get cash to businesses in need has been a hallmark of the Scottish Government and this budget will do little to help."
“Perhaps worst of all, the SNP continues to spend money and time on a divisive second independence referendum despite an ongoing health emergency and its accompanying economic shock.”