03-09-2024
“Public services need more than short-term reactive cuts; they require longer-term horizons and sustained funding to plan effectively.”
Owen Mapley, Chief Executive of CIPFA, responds to the pre-budget fiscal update delivered today by Scotland's Finance Secretary, Shona Robison.
Owen Mapley, Chief Executive of CIPFA, said:
“Today’s statement from Scotland’s Finance Secretary outlines several tough choices and necessary cuts to balance in-year funding pressures. However, while balancing the current budget is essential, CIPFA emphasises the need for longer-term stability. Public services require more than short-term solutions; they require longer-term horizons and sustained funding to plan effectively.
“Beyond immediate financial constraints, rising pay awards, demographic shifts, and increasing demands and costs in health and social care highlight the need for comprehensive reforms and longer-term funding plans. These challenges go beyond the current focus on balancing the annual budget.
“CIPFA acknowledges the challenging financial conditions faced by public service leaders in Scotland. While Scotland does not have the equivalent of 's114 notices' used in England, financial pressures remain substantial. To address these challenges, CIPFA is collaborating with LGIU and senior finance practitioners in Scotland to develop additional guidance to support finance teams through these difficult times.”
Notes to editor
For more information, please contact the CIPFA Press Office at press@cipfa.org.