A SCOTTISH Labour MP has asked the Prime Minister to roll back devolution and constrain how the SNP Government spends its Budget.
As it stands, the Scottish Government has the freedom to decide how it uses any “Barnett consequentials” which it gets as a result of spending decisions south of the Border.
However, at Prime Minister’s Questions, the Scottish Labour MP for Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch, Katrina Murray, asked for this to change.
Murray said: “Cumbernauld in my constituency was promised an elective and diagnostic treatment centre by the Scottish Government in 2021. This has continued to be delayed and is now alleged to be mothballed.
“What assurances can the Prime Minister give me that any Barnett consequentials from today's Budget are used to benefit my constituents and not be held on to by the Scottish Government?”
Keir Starmer, in his answer, did not commit to doing as Murray had asked.
He said: “I'm sorry to hear about the delays affecting her constituents.
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“The party opposite [the Tories] oversaw years of mismanagement and chaos, and the impact on Scottish NHS is evident.
“This Labour government is committed to delivering for the Scottish people, including making sure that we have an NHS fit for the future.
“The Chancellor will set out details in just a few moments.”
Commenting afterwards, SNP MP Pete Wishart said: "Scottish Labour MPs continuing the tradition started by Scottish Tory MPs in asking questions about the Scottish Government that have absolutely nothing to do with UK Government Ministers.
"It just makes them look like they're in the wrong Parliament and also, slightly daft ..."
The exchange came as Starmer answered questions ahead of Rachel Reeves delivering the Budget.
The highly anticipated statement from the Chancellor is expected to deliver tax rises, departmental cuts, and a change to fiscal rules to allow increased borrowing.
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