Commenting after questioning Crawford Beveridge at a meeting of the Scottish Parliament’s Finance Committee, Liberal Democrat Finance spokesperson Jeremy Purvis MSP said:

“In response to my questioning, Crawford Beveridge confirmed that there is no reason why the Scottish Government cannot publish a policy response to each of the recommendations in the independent budget review group report.

“This report called for immediate action to provide a “comprehensive and strategic” ranking of capital projects like schools and roads. This highlights the need for the government to publish a full response to the Independent Budget Review Group report.

“The SNP parade as a strong Government, but when it comes to making difficult budget choices, they hide behind the mantle of minority government.

“There is no reason why the SNP cannot publish their spending choices - it’s their duty as a Government to do it.”