Scottish Green finance spokesperson Ross Greer has criticized the UK budget, calling it insufficient and lacking bold action to address pressing issues. Greer argued that Labour’s budget, while modest in its promises, has failed to meet even these minimal expectations, particularly in regard to policies that affect vulnerable populations. He highlighted the failure to lift the two-child benefit cap and the cut to the Winter Fuel Payment, measures he believes will worsen poverty and lead to unnecessary hardship, especially for children and the elderly.
Greer expressed disappointment over Labour’s choice to freeze fuel duty and increase bus fares in England rather than investing in sustainable, affordable public transport. In contrast, he praised the Scottish Greens’ initiatives, such as free bus travel for youth and the removal of peak rail fares, as proactive climate solutions. He criticized Labour’s approach as one that prioritizes car travel, exacerbating the climate crisis instead of reducing emissions.
Though he acknowledged the increase in taxes on private jet travel as a step forward, Greer called for further action, including full devolution of Air Passenger Duty to Scotland. He concluded by condemning Labour’s continuation of Conservative-style social security policies that, in his view, unfairly target vulnerable populations while failing to address tax avoidance among the wealthiest.