Baker wants cuts in Fife's budget opposed

The Scottish Labour MSP has submitted a motion highlighting the proposed £24.3 million cut to Fife Council, claiming it will lead to 'further cuts to vital local services and jobs across Fife.'

Highlighting that the 3.8% cut to Fife’s budget is facing widespread opposition from councillors, trade unionists and workers, and “undermines local democracy”, the Kelty woman has called on the Scottish Government to protect local public services.

This week, Scottish Labour will lead a debate on the Budget in the Scottish Parliament. Labour has called for opposition parties to unite and reject the cuts to local councils across Scotland.

According to figures from independent Scottish Parliament researchers, Ms Baker says the SNP’s current Budget will see cuts nationwide to local authorities of £327 million.

Scottish Labour is calling for the Government to use the new powers of the Scottish Parliament to reverse the cuts.

Commenting ahead of the debate, Claire Baker MSP said: “Currently Fife Council is facing a cut of over £24 million to their budget, putting local jobs and vital local services at risk.

“We have seen under the SNP a centralising agenda that has eroded local democracy. The budget as it currently stands further undermines councils across the country, including Fife.

“That is why I have called for the Scottish Government to protect local public services and to reverse these cuts before it is too late".

She added: “We have the opportunity to use the new powers of the Parliament to take a different position from the austerity agenda currently being driven by the Tories at Westminster.

“The Scottish Government have a choice to make. They can use the powers they have and protect local services and jobs or they can continue with cuts.

“But Scottish Labour is clear, we want to invest in our public services. It is time to take a stand against austerity and deliver for our local communities.”