 Allan
Wilson MSP has launched a scathing attack on Tory plans to slash frontline
services. As First Minister Jack McConnell this week launched an updated
Framework for Economic Development in Scotland (FEDS) calling for increased
investment in skills and education, and infrastructure improvements, the
Tories again called for frontline public sector jobs to be cut.
Attacking the Tory plans Allan Wilson said “While we have restated our
commitment to investment in frontline services the Tories have again called
for cuts. I fully recognise that there is a need to ensure that our public
services are effective and efficient, and the updated Framework for Economic
Development in Scotland makes clear that the public sector must get maximum
value for money.”
“However, unlike the Tories, I believe that this can be done without
slashing frontline services.
I believe that frontline staff such as classroom assistants play a vital
role in helping educate our children, staff which the Tories would dump on
the dole.”
“In contrast to this FEDS reaffirms the Scottish Executive’s commitment to
investment: in skills and education; in transport and infrastructure,
including specific provision for the future development of our ports
infrastructure at Hunterston; and in research and development.”
“Here in Largs we have already seen investment in the Largs flood prevention
scheme bring benefits that Tory cuts would jeopardise and after waiting
through years of Tory Government for a new health centre for the town, the
return of Tory cuts would see that investment dry up.”
“While the Executive has outlined plans to grow the economy and invest in
North Ayrshire the Tories have again shown that they cannot be trusted with
Scotland’s public services.”
NOTES:
“There is nothing wrong in the principle with hiring classroom assistants
and social workers, but the reality is they are financed by the taxes of
individuals and profitable businesses”
Brian Monteith, Conservative Finance and Local Government Spokesman, 31st
August 2004
“There are no specifics, no jobs going to be cut”
Murdo Fraser, Conservative Enterprise Spokesman, Responding to the First
Minister’s FEDS announcement, 2nd September 2004 |
