Alasdair Allan, SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, has welcomed the Scottish Government's proposed Scottish Budget presented to Holyrood today.  

The Budget ensures that 55% of Scots will continue to pay lower rates of tax than anywhere else in the UK.  

In the islands, there will continue to be rates relief support for businesses, with the Budget also outlining proposals to introduce a Highlands and Islands exemption status to an Air Departure Tax.  

During the debate, Allan highlighted that Western Isles residents continue to face amongst the highest levels of fuel poverty in the UK, asking the Cabinet Secretary for continued support from the Scottish Government for those most in need.  

Following the budget, Allan commented:  

“Today’s budget has confirmed that this SNP Scottish Government is focused on helping the people of Scotland through Westminster’s Cost of Living Crisis. 

“I was encouraged by the Cabinet Secretary’s response to my question today that the Scottish Government is keen to do all it can within its limited powers to tackle fuel poverty in the Western Isles.  

“Of course, this was a budget that seeks to improve lives all over Scotland, especially families. This was seen in a range of new policies, including free swimming lessons for primary school children, breakfast club funding for all primary schools and SEN schools and increase the Scottish Chid Payment to £40 a week for families with a baby under the age of one. 

“The contrast between Westminster and the SNP’s priorities could not be starker. With the powers of independence, we can have the full fiscal powers to deliver on the priorities for the people of Scotland.”