Dundee LibDems agree that SNP government "on thin ice" (Dundee Liberal Democrats)

Dundee Liberal Democrats <info@dundeelibdems.org.uk>

Dundee LibDems agree that SNP government "on thin ice"

August 24, 2007 7:19 PM

On the 100th day of the SNP administration in Holyrood, Dundee Liberal Democrats today (Friday 24th August) backed comments by Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader Nicol Stephen MSP that the SNP Scottish government was skating "on thin ice."

Nicol said, "In 100 days, the SNP managed to produce their White Paper. But they have failed to get the basics right. They have spent so much time on independence, they can't tell us how many teachers they need for their promises on class sizes.

"If you thought a class size of 18 was on its way to a school near you, think again. They don't know and they can't say. They haven't done the work."

Across a host of policy areas, Nicol Stephen has pointed out the failings of the SNP administration :

Betrayed their back-bench: before the election Alex Neil "questioned the wisdom" of RSA grants for big business. He said the Executive was "a soft touch" and had been "hoodwinked". After the election, SNP minister Jim Mather keeps awarding RSA grants and says they are "vital" and "crucial."

Betrayed their supporters: The SNP Students website still says that "only the SNP will write off existing student debts". But SNP Minister Fiona Hyslop says that "the operational burden of such a move would be prohibitive."

Betrayed the environment: the SNP abandoned its promise to have annual carbon reduction targets. The World Development Movement said "it is incredibly disappointing that the government has reneged on its manifesto commitments."

Here in Dundee, LibDem Council Group Leader, Cllr Fraser Macpherson, said, "The SNP administration at Holyrood is proving all spin and no substance. The priority for Scotland is better schools and hospitals - not separation, the SNP obsession.

"Already we have seen a Dundee SNP councillor resign this week, days after he promised not to do so. When it comes to delivering, it appears the SNP falls at the first hurdle."