Scottish government publishes emergency budget review

The Scottish government has announced measures intended to help those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

Around £35 million of funding for initiatives to support people with the cost of living has been identified by The Emergency Budget Review (EBR) for 2022-23.

The measures include doubling the Fuel Insecurity Fund, doubling the Scottish Child Bridging Payment to £260 and a £1.4 million Island Cost Crisis Emergency Fund intended to help island households manage higher energy costs.

There will also be investment in public sector pay deals, with higher increases in pay for low earners.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “There has never been a time of greater pressure on the public finances.

“The Scottish Government's budget today is worth £1.7 billion less than when it was published last December. At the same time, demand for government support and intervention is understandably increasing while we continue to try to fund increased public sector pay claims, particularly for those on lowest incomes.

“These savings are not ones we would wish to make, but in the absence of additional funding from the UK Government, we are left with no alternative.

“We must balance the books while prioritising funding to help families, back business, provide fair pay awards and to protect the delivery of public services. This Emergency Budget Review delivers on these objectives.”