Most Scots 'back spending powers'

Mar 23 2013

Most Scots believe all decisions on tax and welfare should be taken by the Scottish Government, according to a poll.

The majority view was given in the run-up to the SNP's spring conference, despite other polls showing support for independence stalling at about one-third.

The YouGov/SNP poll suggests 52% of people think the Scottish Government should be responsible for all tax and spending decisions, including tax revenues from oil and gas. By contrast, just 35% want the UK Government to take charge in those areas.

The results are similar when people were asked which administration is "best" at deciding welfare and pensions policy for Scotland. Around half (53%) said the Scottish Government and 34% said the UK Government.

For both questions, 13% do not know.

Finance Secretary John Swinney said: "These are hugely encouraging results and show that the positive arguments put forward by the independence campaign are winning the support of the people of Scotland.

"There is a clear majority support for the key decisions about Scotland to be taken right here in Scotland.

"This is a big blow to the No campaign.

"Scotland is in a stronger financial position than the UK as a whole, to the tune of £4.4 billion, or £824 per person, and we know that Scotland spends proportionately less of its budget on welfare and pensions than the rest of the UK.

"Only a Yes vote on 18 September 2014 will enable us to invest our abundant resources in building the fairer and more prosperous Scotland that we all want to see."