Tories to push for finance transparency at party conference

The Scottish Conservatives are set to unveil a Bill aimed at "opening the books" on the first day of their party conference in Aberdeen.

The legislation would require the Scottish Government to publish an update to the budget every three months, which would include a statement from the Finance Secretary.

If the legislation is passed, the Scottish Government would also be compelled to publish monthly data on the uptake of funds it offers, as well as publishing a value for money statement ahead of taking ownership of a private company.

Party leader Douglas Ross, said the Scottish Government should be able to prove how "every penny of (taxpayer) money is spent.

"Our Open the Books Bill would strengthen financial transparency and government accountability," he said.

"Too often, the vast sums that the SNP have at their disposal is shrouded in secrecy.

"We've all seen SNP ministers insist that they're skint, only to hastily find another hundred million to spend.

"Just this week, Audit Scotland highlighted serious flaws in the transparency of Covid business grants, caused by a lack of information.

"There is a pressing need to open the books so that taxpayers can get better value for money.

"We're building the real alternative to the SNP, so we can end the secrecy that is holding Scotland back."

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