Liberal Democrat Shadow Finance Secretary Tavish Scott MSP slammed the Scottish Government’s financial complacency.

Mr Scott questioned the Finance Secretary about the Scottish Government’s plans for public spending next year, following a statement that was packed with spin rather than dealing with Scots’ pressing financial concerns.

Commenting, Mr Scott said:

“This statement was packed with smoke, mirrors and spin. SNP Ministers have congratulated themselves on their financial management, but Scots in the real world are living the reality of economic life. Mr Swinney had not one word for them today.

“The Governor of the Bank of England is warning that rising food and energy prices could push UK inflation above 4 per cent and interest rates are set to rise. But the Finance Secretary didn’t even mention inflation.

“The credit and financial squeeze is a reality. One in six householders across the country fear losing their homes, but the Finance Secretary had no time for them today.

“The financial complacency of the SNP Government is staggering.”