In a significant announcement, Scottish First Minister John Swinney has unveiled his comprehensive Programme for Government aimed at addressing key health and economic challenges.
Marking one year since his election and one year before the end of this Parliament, Mr Swinney outlined a series of initiatives designed to strengthen the NHS and provide robust cost-of-living support for households and businesses.
A cornerstone of the programme is the delivery of 100,000 additional GP appointments by March 2026. These appointments will focus on managing high-risk health factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, obesity, and smoking. Additionally, the NHS will provide over 150,000 extra appointments and procedures, including a 50% increase in surgical procedures like hip and knee replacements. This initiative aims to tackle backlogs and improve patient outcomes, particularly in cancer treatment pathways.
Speaking about the Programme for Government, Swinney said:
“This Programme for Government is focused on providing the best cost-of-living support across the UK, as well as delivering a renewed and stronger NHS.
“When I became First Minister a year ago, I heard loud and clear people’s concerns about the NHS which is why I am taking serious action to ensure the NHS meets the needs of the public.
“This PfG also shows decisive action to protect Scotland’s economy and maximise our economic potential in the face of global challenges.
“It is being published earlier than usual, in part because it allows a clear year of delivery on the NHS and other public services, but also due to the scale of the looming economic challenge.
“It is a programme for a better Scotland, for a stronger NHS and a more resilient and wealthier Scotland. It is a Programme for Government that gets our nation on track for success.”
Swinney also introduced a 'best in UK' cost-of-living guarantee, which includes several measures to alleviate financial pressures on Scottish residents. Key elements of this guarantee are:
- Ongoing free prescriptions and eye exams
- Free bus travel for 2.3 million people
- Free tuition for students
- Over £6,000 in early learning and childcare support per eligible child
- Permanent abolition of ScotRail peak rail fares
- Restoration of winter fuel payments for pensioners
The Programme for Government also features a new Six Point Export Plan aimed at unlocking target markets and showcasing Scotland to global buyers. Additionally, a national regeneration fund will support at least 26 projects to renew and restore communities, creating more local jobs.
Housing initiatives include stronger protections for tenants and the delivery of over 8,000 affordable homes. The government also plans to remove barriers on stalled building sites, potentially delivering up to 20,000 new homes.
This ambitious programme reflects a commitment to improving public health, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for all Scottish residents.
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