COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson, Councillor Katie Hagmann, has written to the Scottish Government and UK Government following the UK Government’s budget announcement on 30th October.
Commenting, Councillor Hagmann said:
“Following the UK Budget announcement, I have written today to both UK Government and Scottish Government seeking assurance that local government in Scotland and the communities we serve will receive our fair share of the additional funds announced in the UK Budget.
“Scottish Local Government has seen significant cuts to our core settlement over time, and we hope that moving into 2025/26 we can begin to reverse these cuts and ensure that there is sustainable investment in local public services.
“We have sought assurances from the UK government around some areas, including the increase to employer National Insurance contributions which will not only have a detrimental impact on councils as employers but also on many of our partner organisations who deliver vital services across our communities, for example social care and children's services. We will continue to work with both UK Government and Scottish Government to minimise any detriment to our communities and their local services.
“The Verity House Agreement between Scottish Local Government and the Scottish Government laid out shared priorities around tackling child poverty, supporting a just transition to net zero and sustainable public services. We hope to work constructively with colleagues in Scottish Government to deliver on these and ensure the very best outcomes for everyone in our communities.”