COWDENBEATH MSP Annabelle Ewing has welcomed the backing given by Holyrood to the Scottish Government's budget plans, offering 'economic stability in the face of Brexit while giving a cash boost to the NHS, schools and other vital services'.

The MSP said that despite Westminster cuts of almost £2 billion in a decade to Scotland’s block resource grant, the SNP is proposing additional funding of almost £730 million for Scotland’s health and care services – including £24.8 million for NHS Fife.

Under the deal reached, Fife Council will receive an additional £34 million in spending power compared to last year’s budget as part of a total overall settlement of £11.1bn for local government.

The budget, with Green support, also includes more than £180 million to raise attainment in schools, and almost £500 million for the expansion of early learning and childcare.

Ms Ewing said: “With the UK Government in complete chaos, the SNP in government are offering certainty and stability with a budget which protects public services, supports the economy, and helps build a fairer country.

“This budget uses our powers in a progressive way in order to protect and invest in our public services – with a major boost for the NHS.

“Giving our schools, hospitals and other vital services in Fife the money they need to deliver better services for our communities is vital to this government. This is why I welcome Holyrood’s support for the budget.”