Barnett Consequentials – that’s a phrase you hear often in relation to Scotland’s finances, even when Westminster is discussing something that may appear to have no direct effect on Scotland because powers in that area have been devolved.
But it may not be so, as the formula behind Barnett is destined to allow us only an equivalent of the spend that is made down south from the public purse. And the landscape is changing, you may or may not have noticed. For privatisation creeps in at every turn and that means less public expense and as a result Barnett Consequentials.
It is going to become hugely important in the next two years to grasp the impact, especially with the current Westminster government set firmly on the road to Virgin Clinics in the hospitals, amongst other things.
So take a few minutes and read this excellent analysis from our friends at Wings Over Scotland. And think carefully on any preference to remain with what we have and the inexorable decline that will bring, or to take charge and to look after our children and our elderly in the manner of our choosing. You decide.
PS A wee film for you to watch
laidbackviews 