04-12-2024
In response to the Scottish Budget 2025-26, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) welcomes the Scottish Government’s efforts to deliver targeted investments addressing critical public service challenges, including commitments to housing, social security, and health care. While measures such as the £768 million allocation for affordable housing and a £1 billion uplift for local authorities are encouraging, long-term reforms remain essential to work towards achieving sustainable and resilient finances across the public sector in Scotland.
CIPFA Chief Executive Owen Mapley, said:
“This budget prioritises Scotland’s most vulnerable communities, reflecting a commitment to vital public service investment. However, achieving sustainable public services requires deeper structural reform to address enduring financial challenges, which are affecting all four nations of the UK.
“The end of the council tax freeze is a welcome step, granting local authorities greater flexibility to address local needs at a local level. Yet, this flexibility must be part of a broader strategy of reform to tackle systemic pressures and ensure that services are equitable and resilient for communities across Scotland.”
Notes to editor
Please contact the CIPFA Press Office for more details press@cipfa.org.