Scot Lib Dems respond to Spring Statement

Responding to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, Liberal Democrat Scottish Affairs spokesperson Christine Jardine MP said:

“The Spring Statement was a missed opportunity to deliver the change our communities are crying out for. People voted for change but so far Labour are delivering more of the same.

“The Government had the chance today to kickstart growth by scrapping their jobs tax. Instead the government has chosen to inflict more pain on our small businesses - leaving communities facing the prospect of yet more boarded up high streets. And they’ll be a hammer blow for GPs, pharmacies and care homes who will see their taxes hiked. That is why we have repeatedly raised the alarm about the damage from the Employer’s National Insurance rise and fought to exempt health and care providers.

“The government could have raised money instead by asking the big banks, social media giants and online gambling companies to pay their fair share.

“The Spring Statement also shows that this government does not understand our rural communities at all. They’ve refused to cancel the cruel family farm tax. 

“One of the few bright lights was the Government’s commitment to higher defence spending, with Liberal Democrats having urged them to commit to 2.5% of GDP and called for cross-party talks so we can get to 3% as soon as possible. I am optimistic that this can support jobs in Scotland and ensure both our security and that of Ukraine. However there is more to do in terms of rebuilding economic and defence ties to our European allies and neighbours.”