Press Story

As serious doubts arise over the Alexander Dennis bus manufacturing plant in Falkirk, all eyes should now be on the upcoming industrial strategy

Responding to the Spending Review released today, Stephen Boyd, Director of IPPR Scotland said:

“The broad settlement for Scotland is welcome. But an average annual increase of 1.1 per cent in the block grant is unlikely to meet Scotland’s ongoing fiscal challenges that are only likely to deepen with an ageing population and the climate crisis. A sustainable solution to Scotland’s fiscal challenges will require further tax changes, some of which can and should be pursued using devolved powers.

“As serious doubts arise over the future of the Alexander Dennis bus manufacturing plant in Falkirk, it was interesting to see the forthcoming industrial strategy loom large across the devolved nations’ section of the spending review paper.

“Given Scotland’s extensive specialisms and capabilities across the UK government’s priority sectors, Scottish industry must stand to benefit from the policy framework provided by the strategy and related investments. We look forward to its publication with real and pressing interest”.

ENDS

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW:

Stephen Boyd, director of IPPR Scotland, is available for interview.

CONTACT:

Sukhada Tatke, media and impact officer at IPPR Scotland: s.tatke@ippr.org, 07901169121

NOTE TO EDITORS:

IPPR Scotland shapes public policy in pursuit of a fairer, greener, more prosperous Scotland. https://www.ippr.org/scotland