Swinney says he is ‘resolutely focused’ on delivering for Scots as recess ends

First Minister John Swinney has pledged to be “resolutely focused” on delivering for Scots as the Holyrood recess comes to an end.

MSPs will return from their summer break on Monday – the same day the Government’s abolition of peak rail fares comes into effect.

The Scottish Government said “further significant announcements” are expected in the coming week, including one on housing on Tuesday.

Ahead of Holyrood’s return, Swinney said he would be focused on battling the cost-of-living crisis.

He said: “The SNP Government is resolutely focused on delivering for the people of Scotland, and over the summer we have seen increasing evidence that this is paying off – whether that is the strong exam results achieved this year by our young people, the record numbers of hip and knee replacements performed by our NHS, or Scotland’s continued outstanding performance in attracting inward investment.

“We know people are struggling, which is why we are focused on the cost of living and improving people’s lives.

“There is much more to do, and when Parliament returns we will hit the ground running – starting by abolishing peak rail fares in Scotland for good.”

Peak rail fares will end in Scotland from Monday (Jane Barlow/PA). PA Media

Swinney said such action is “in stark contrast” to Westminster’s response to the cost-of-living crisis, which he said involved “demonising minorities to distract from the fact that their actions are making people’s lives worse”.

He added: “Not content with raiding the incomes of the poor, the disabled and the elderly, we are now seeing a normalisation of extreme right-wing rhetoric that is utterly chilling.

“When people tell us they need help during these tough times, the SNP Government offers action while Westminster offers distraction.

“The UK Government is doing nothing to help people with soaring bills, and so Labour have bought into a deeply troubling agenda to distract from their failure.”

John Swinney claimed there was a ‘moral vacuum’ at Westminster (Jordan Pettitt/PA). PA Media

Swinney said there is a “complete political and moral vacuum at the heart of a Westminster system” which is not working for people in Scotland.

He added: “Scotland needs to be in charge of our own destiny.

“Westminster is heading down a very dark path, but Scotland does not need to follow them.

“Over the next year we will show the people of Scotland – through our actions and our vision – that independence is the fresh start that Scotland needs.”

A UK Government spokesperson said: “Our Plan for Change is securing our future by growing the economy in all parts of the UK.

“We are investing £1.7bn in growth projects across Scotland and our trade deals are great news for Scottish businesses, opening up new export opportunities in India, Europe and the USA.

“We are turbocharging economic growth and putting more money into the pockets of working people.”