Scottish budget will see hard choices, Social Justice Secretary says

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville warned the 2026-27 Scottish budget will require "hard choices" and defended higher taxation for those with the "broadest shoulders". The budget, covering about £60bn, will be announced by Finance Secretary Shona Robison on Tuesday.

Scotland's Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, warned that the upcoming Scottish budget will require hard choices. She defended current taxation levels and said people with the "broadest shoulders" would continue to pay more. The 2026-27 Budget, covering about £60bn, is due to be announced by Finance Secretary Shona Robison on Tuesday. Known facts: - Shirley-Anne Somerville said the next budget will require "hard choices" and defended taxation levels. - She stated that those with the "broadest shoulders" would continue to pay more tax. - The Scottish government’s 2026-27 Budget, around £60bn, will be announced by Finance Secretary Shona Robison on Tuesday. Summary: The remarks indicate the government expects fiscal pressures and trade-offs as it finalises spending plans. The next scheduled step is the formal budget announcement by Finance Secretary Shona Robison on Tuesday.