KATE Forbes will today appeal to the UK Government for Scotland to be given “the necessary powers and flexibilities” following a review into the devolved financial arrangement.
The Finance and Economy Secretary will meet Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Simon Clarke, in London today.
Ms Forbes will stress the need for a review of Scotland's fiscal framework to be wide-ranging.
In 2016, the fiscal framework set out fiscal powers that would complement the devolution of tax and welfare powers – including how the block grant from Westminster was adjusted and arrangements for capital borrowing.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Ms Forbes said: “We have faced unprecedented economic and fiscal upheaval as a consequence of the pandemic and Brexit. As a result, Scotland’s fiscal framework has been thoroughly tested and, in some areas, found wanting.
“I look forward to constructive discussions today with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, reflecting on how the framework has performed and considering ways it can be improved.”
She added: “I believe that the forthcoming framework review offers a much-needed opportunity to evaluate and scrutinise the current arrangements.
"It is important to consider a wide range of issues to ensure that the Scottish Government and Parliament have the necessary powers and flexibilities to support sound financial planning and manage risk.
“This approach is supported by the Scottish Parliament’s Finance and Public Administration Committee and the Social Justice and Social Security Committee."
Ms Forbes said the review must include a broad selection of views "if we are to properly capture current issues and ensure the framework is fit for purpose in future".
A HM Treasury spokesperson said: "We look forward to a productive meeting on this important issue – we continue to work collaboratively with the Scottish Government to deliver for people in Scotland.”
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