Scottish Budget 2026 Live: Shona Robison to Announce the Government’s Spending and Tax Plans

The Context of Scotland’s Budget 2026-27

The upcoming Scottish government budget is a crucial document that outlines how public funds will be allocated over the next financial year, which runs from April 2026 to March 2027. This budget is particularly significant because it comes at a time when the SNP administration is preparing for upcoming Holyrood elections in May 2025. The finance secretary, Shona Robison, will present her draft Budget live, providing insight into how the Scottish government intends to manage its finances.

Key Components of the Draft Budget

The budget statement will detail around £60 billion in spending on public services. This amount represents a substantial sum that needs careful management, especially as the Scottish government faces various pressures and priorities. One key component is the tax plans, which will be revealed during the budget process. The government will also conduct a review of capital funding for construction projects and other long-term infrastructure investments.

Political Implications and Challenges

The budget statement comes with political implications, as the Scottish Labour Party has already indicated it won’t block the SNP’s plan but may abstain instead. This decision by Labour could reduce the bargaining power of smaller parties like the Greens and Liberal Democrats in negotiations for their support. The finance secretary faces tough decisions on tax and spending, particularly regarding potential cuts to higher earners and addressing concerns about capital funding.

According to political correspondent Lynsey Bews, there are speculations that a “capital funding black hole” could emerge.

This refers to the Scottish government’s two accounts: one for day-to-day spending and another for capital investments in permanent assets like roads, hospitals, and schools. Currently, the Scottish government plans to spend £8 billion on capital projects but only has funding for £7 billion. This shortfall could force the government to pause or cancel some planned projects.

Expert Perspectives

Sir Tom Hunter, an entrepreneur known for his retail background, believes that the Scottish government’s approach to business is a “disgrace” and calls for lower taxes to generate higher revenues. He argues that policy should be done “with” businesses rather than “to” them. Hunter suggests measures like free parking, reduced rates, and more affordable business rent could help save struggling high streets.

Meanwhile, the BBC’s Scotland editor, James Cook, notes that Shona Robison’s budget will not only affect public services but also shape the SNP’s legacy in the run-up to the elections. With an election looming, Robison must balance reducing the burden on business and those earning more than £30,000 per year, while ensuring councils, colleges, and the police receive necessary funding.

Live Coverage of the Scottish Budget 2026-27

The budget statement is scheduled to begin around 14:20. As the events unfold, we will be providing live coverage, including opinions from business leaders, working families, and prospective Holyrood voters. You can watch the statement live on this platform by clicking on the Watch Live icon at the top of the page.

Stay tuned for all the latest developments as Finance Secretary Shona Robison outlines her plans for the coming financial year. This budget will not only set the stage for government spending but also influence future policy directions and public expectations in Scotland.