Press Story

Stephen Boyd, director of IPPR Scotland, said:

“The Chancellor is correct in saying that the world has changed. Fiscal challenges are only likely to intensify across all advanced economies as security concerns add to the pressures already building due to ageing populations and climate change.

“In this context, the government should think very carefully about how these costs are shared across society in the longer term. The benefits and services that support the living standards of vulnerable people can’t always be expected to take the strain. It is only fair and reasonable to expect taxation to play a much more prominent role than it is playing now in helping to meet fiscal rules. The Chancellor has options in this respect including closing loopholes in capital gains and inheritance tax.

“Despite the significant increase announced in the Chancellor’s autumn budget, the Scottish government faces ongoing challenges that will only intensify with the impact of cuts to disability payments. Again, it is incumbent on Scottish ministers to revisit their tax strategy to meet these challenges – including the first minister’s commitment to eradicate child poverty - and support the living standards of all Scotland’s people.”

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW:

Stephen Boyd, IPPR Scotland director, is available for interviews.

CONTACT:

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

NOTES TO EDITORS:

IPPR Scotland shapes public policy in pursuit of a fairer, greener, more prosperous Scotland.
We published a briefing paper last week demonstrating that, without additional investment, the Scottish government will miss its 2030 child poverty target. New statistics showing whether the 2023/24 target was hit will be released tomorrow (27th March) and we will provide a press release in response.