CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves must support growth, deliver more investment in public services and take action on the cost-of-living crisis in Wednesday’s Budget, according to SNP Finance Secretary Shona Robison.

Ms Robison set out her demands as she began preparations to deliver her final Scottish budget in January before she steps down at May’s Holyrood elections, preparations she argues have been stymied by a Westminster budget process she branded “chaotic and mired in damaging uncertainty.”

She said: “It is disappointing that neither the Prime Minister nor the Chancellor were able to meet with the First Minister in London this week.

“Given the limited time to consider the implications of any major policy changes between the UK Budget and the Scottish Budget on January 13, this lack of engagement is a particular concern.”

Turning to the substance of Ms Reeves’s Budget, she continued: “Last year, the UK government increased employer national insurance contributions without any consultation: we cannot see a repeat this year.”

Ms Robison said the Chancellor needs to change course, with investment in public services and infrastructure that “supports industry and jobs and delivers support on the cost-of-living challenges people across Scotland are facing.”

She said: “Energy bills in particular are a source of real worry for people. While the UK government promised to cut energy bills by £300, they have actually risen by almost £200, so this Budget must provide some relief for households who are struggling.

“The UK government must also listen to industry concerns around the energy profits levy: this was always supposed to be a temporary measure and it is now affecting investment and jobs in Scotland.

“Scotland must not be left as an afterthought yet again.”