Stirling MP Alyn Smith has written to UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak to underline the renewed case for additional business and worker support, following recent announcements of localised restrictions. 

The Scottish Government currently lacks crucial borrowing powers, and instead relies on the UK Government to borrow on its behalf. SNP politicians have consistently called on business support to go further, and target sectors of the economy who remain vulnerable to pandemic-related disruption.

In his letter, Mr Smith urges the Chancellor to back up the localised management of outbreaks, by ensuring businesses and employees are supported when following public health guidance.

Alyn Smith MP said:

‘The additional local measures announced by the First Minister and the Scottish Government are crucial to slow the growing number of cases across Stirling and Forth Valley, and head-off a full lockdown. I realise the disruption these restrictions will cause – but it is vitally important to take measured actions now to save lives and minimise the need for greater restrictions in future.

‘If Scotland were independent, it could replicate the actions of every other European country and borrow on international markets to support Scottish businesses and the economy; given we remain part of the United Kingdom, we rely on the UK Government to borrow on Scotland’s behalf.

‘I urge the Chancellor to recognise differentiated local circumstances during this pandemic, and the need for targeted, tailored business and worker support in areas with additional restrictions and public health measures.’

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