THE SCOTTISH Greens have agreed to back the SNP Government’s budget plans.
Scottish Finance Secretary Derek Mackay announced the deal earlier today ahead of the first debate on the government’s tax and spending proposals in Holyrood this afternoon.
Further details will be announced during the debate, but the Greens say they have secured commitments on local council services, and public sector pay.
They say Mackay has also agreed to “bring forward low-carbon capital investment including work to tackle fuel poverty and progress new rail developments”
A spokesman for the Greens said they had won a “substantial” package from the government.
“Opposition parties have a responsibility to engage constructively and make a difference for Scotland's communities, and that’s exactly what Greens are doing.
“This is a substantial package of funding for local council services, teachers and other public sector workers, and will boost the green infrastructure our communities need for the future. On this basis, our MSPs are able to support the budget in tonight’s vote."
The SNP don’t have a majority in the Scottish Parliament and need the support from one other party to have the budget passed.
The agreement covers all three stages of the budget process.
It is the second year in a row that the Greens have thrashed out a deal with the SNP.
Nicola Sturgeon took to Twitter to congratulate the Finance Secretary on striking a deal: “Well done @DerekMackaySNP - delivering a budget that will reverse Tory austerity, protect public services and grow our economy”.
Labour and the Tories were less enthusiastic and effectively accused the Greens of selling out.
Scottish Labour tweeted: “Last year the Greens voted with the SNP to cut £170 million from lifeline services. It looks like they are at it again. This is not negotiation, it is capitulation."
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