Reform Scotland, the independent, non-party think tank, has released a critique of the five main parties’ manifestos. The think tank released its own manifesto last month, with 16 policies, and it has commented directly on the parties’ approach to those 16 policies.
The critique can be seen below.
Commenting, Reform Scotland’s Research Director Alison Payne said:
“It is clear from the party manifestos that local government reform will be a key issue for the next parliament. The Greens, Lib Dems and Conservatives are all critical of powers being taken away from local government – a stance we would agree with – though it is disappointing how few specific proposals there are to reverse this situation. The SNP talk about examining how greater powers can be passed down with regards to schools and health boards, and this too has to be welcomed.
“However, there are other areas in need of a fresh approach. An issue not touched on by any of the parties is our view that there should be one government department responsible for both the new tax and welfare powers due to be devolved. This may at first seem like a small administrative point, but it is about looking to create a better, more coherent and transparent system and not simply replicating what happens at Westminster.”
ENDS