Scottish Budget to focus on NHS and cost-of-living support

Scotland’s Finance Secretary has revealed that the upcoming Hollyrood Budget will prioritise improvements to the NHS and tackling the cost-of-living crisis.

Shona Robison will present the draft Budget on Tuesday, ahead of May’s elections. She described the plans as focusing “resolutely” on the priorities of people in Scotland, with measures designed to “bring down NHS waiting lists, support families, reduce child poverty and boost the economy.”

The Budget is guaranteed to pass, as opposition Labour has confirmed it will not block the SNP minority Government’s proposals.

She added: "We will use this Budget to continue the progress we are delivering in Scotland - bringing down NHS waiting lists, supporting families, reducing child poverty and growing the economy.

"The Budget measures we take forward will stand in stark contrast to those of the UK Government, which are holding Scotland back.

"Our Budget will continue the trusted leadership that this Government is providing in Scotland and drive progress on the issues people in Scotland care about the most."

The UK Government has been contacted for comment.

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• Shona Robison