Holyrood inquiry launched into Scottish Government's handling of public finances

MSPs are to launch a “vital” inquiry into the Scottish Government’s management of public finances.

The Finance and Public Administration Committee will look at three key areas of the country’s fiscal and economic policies.

MSPs will investigate what progress has been made towards public service reform in Scotland.

Committee members will also consider the Government’s approach to taxation, looking at what its upcoming new draft tax strategy should include and what impact tax policy has on the behaviour of both businesses and individuals.

And MSPs will examine how ministers are using capital spending to help boost innovation, productivity, and growth.

Ahead of the Scottish Budget 2025/26 our new inquiry will examine @scotgov on its

•progress with public service reform
•approach to taxation
•use of capital for innovation & growth.

Our call for views has 11 questions.
Have your say⬇️https://t.co/EQ2bd5IWHT
Closes 12 Aug pic.twitter.com/XBKWzC1C0c
— Finance and Public Admn Committee (@SP_FinancePAC) June 10, 2024

The committee said it was looking for members of the public, including those in the public, private and third sectors, to submit their views on the issue.

Speaking ahead of the inquiry starting, committee convener and SNP MSP Kenneth Gibson said: “Everyone is acutely aware of how challenging the fiscal and economic outlook is at present and is likely to remain for some time to come.

“It is absolutely vital therefore that we assess the effectiveness of the Scottish Government’s overall approach towards managing Scotland’s public finances.

“Our inquiry will take a three-pronged approach, examining the government’s plans for public service reform, its approach to taxation and the use of capital expenditure to achieve innovation, increased productivity and growth.”