The Scottish Greens have made a significant decision regarding the upcoming SNP Budget. Members of the party voted at their conference in Greenock to oppose the budget if it includes cuts to council funding. This motion, put forward by MSPs Ross Greer and Gillian Mackay, was later amended to also include a commitment to vote against the Budget if council funding is reduced and to advocate for councils to have more power to raise additional funds.
The amendment, proposed by Green activist Ellie Gomersall and councillor Anthony Carroll, faced some challenges during the conference but was ultimately debated and passed with overwhelming support. Gomersall emphasized the importance of grassroots members making their voices heard and ensuring that Green MSPs are committed to voting against any Budget that cuts local authority budgets.
The power-sharing agreement between the SNP and the Greens ended earlier this year, meaning that the SNP government now needs to secure support from at least one opposition party in the Scottish Parliament for the Budget to pass. Negotiations between the two parties have been ongoing as Finance Secretary Shona Robison prepares to unveil the Budget on December 4.
Ross Greer highlighted the challenges of budget negotiations in the current financial crisis facing Scotland, partly as a result of cuts made by the Tories and Labour in Westminster. The Scottish Greens are focused on using all available tools to protect people and the planet, especially in light of recent cuts by the SNP in areas like the Nature Restoration Fund and free school meals expansion.
Greer’s motion reflects the lack of trust caused by these cuts, emphasizing the need for Green involvement in the budget’s delivery to prevent the SNP from later dropping key Green initiatives. The overwhelming support for the motion and amendments at the conference underscores the tough negotiations ahead for the government as they strive to find common ground with the opposition parties.
As the Budget deadline approaches, the stance taken by the Scottish Greens adds a significant layer of complexity to the negotiations and decision-making process. The outcome will not only impact council funding but also set the tone for future collaborations and partnerships in the Scottish Parliament. The commitment to protecting local authorities and pushing for more sustainable funding solutions demonstrates the Greens’ dedication to promoting positive change and advocating for the best interests of the community.