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Coronavirus AdviceMSP for Almond Valley Angela Constance has voted to pass the Scottish Government’s budget for 2021/22 – securing additional funding for our NHS, education, local government, and other vital frontline services with total investment increasing by £3.8 billion.
The amended Budget will ensure the introduction of free school meals for all primary school pupils by August 2022, free bus travel for all under-22s, £15m for active travel and £10m for energy efficiency projects.
The deal will also include an £800 pay rise for public sector workers earning less than £25,000, a 2% uplift for those earning up to £40,000, and an extra pandemic support payment of £130 for households in receipt of council tax reduction.
Commenting, Ms Constance said:
“In the face of Tory cuts to Scotland’s capital grant, the Scottish Government has delivered certainty and stability for our economy with a budget that delivers for every single person who lives in Almond Valley.
“This budget is being delivered in exceptional circumstances as we continue to battle a pandemic that has shaken our society and economy to the core, and as we face the harmful impacts of a hard Tory Brexit.
“With an election just weeks away, this is a Budget the Scottish Government can be proud to stand on. It’s a good deal for West Lothian and a good deal for Scotland – and I’m delighted it has now received the support of the Scottish Parliament.”
ENDS
01506 460403
angela.constance.msp@parliament.scot
Unit 4, Ochil House, Beveridge Square, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 6QF