The Liberal Democrats have called for reform to the way Scotland’s budget is set, as Lord Barnett himself disowned the Barnett Formula and sought change.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Scottish Secretary, Alistair Carmichael MP said:

“When even Lord Barnett is disowning the Barnett Formula, it is clear it has to go.

“There is an urgent need to reform the way in which Scotland’s budget is set.

“A full Constitutional Convention to examine expanding the powers of the Scottish Parliament, including greater control over Scotland’s finances, is urgently needed.

“It is clear this is far and away the most popular option with the people of Scotland. If Gordon Brown is serious about constitutional change and increasing democracy, he cannot fail to act.”