Scottish Opposition Questions Cuts to Free School Meals and Rail Fares
Opposition parties in Scotland have urged John Swinney to reverse cuts to free school meals and flat-rate rail fares. The votes, although non-binding, underscore challenges in passing the budget. The SNP needs additional votes after ending a power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens.
Opposition parties in Scotland have urged John Swinney to reverse cuts to free school meals and flat-rate rail fares.
The appeals came after two defeats at Holyrood, where opposition MSPs supported Conservative motions condemning the decisions to scrap free school meals for all primary pupils and reintroduce peak rail fares.
Critics argue these cuts undermine efforts to fight child poverty and the cost of living crisis.
The votes, although non-binding, pose significant challenges for Swinney in getting his budget passed.
Finance Secretary Shona Robison announced £960m in cuts last month.
The SNP minority government needs additional votes after Humza Yousaf ended a power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens.
Swinney hopes for increased funding from the UK chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to secure opposition support.
Liam Kerr criticized the broken SNP manifesto pledge on free school meals, while Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth cited unaffordable costs of £256m.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop noted the high costs of eliminating peak rail fares, which had only a small impact on car usage but benefited middle earners.
Opposition MSPs like Richard Leonard and Graham Simpson stressed the importance of affordable fares for essential workers.