A cynical attempt to scapegoat workers
We utterly reject the Scottish government’s pretence that wage claims in public services are the reason for savage spending cuts — raise taxes to pay workers better for better services, writes COLETTE HUNTER, of Unison Scotland
The welcome news that Cuba has finally been removed from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list is tempered by the fact that Donald Trump, the man who put it there, is returning to the White House, warns NATASHA HICKMAN
Thanks to impressive progress in Britain with wind and solar generation, clean electricity now costs a fraction of the price of gas — yet the current system keeps bills artificially high to protect fossil fuels, writes TOM HARDY
By spreading race-based conspiracy theories, the billionaire tycoon turned right-wing provocateur has been seriously undermining the case against those who really did let victims of the grooming gangs down, writes SOLOMON HUGHES
Many Western countries are grappling with deep political instability. What are the causes of this, and what could be a possible way forward? asks MARC VANDEPITTE
KEITH BENNETT explains why, despite its present meagre economic outcomes, an honest and fruitful partnership with China is worth pursuing
Nick Wright talks to photographer and author JANINA STRUK
CUTS to public services — and we had £500 million worth announced this week — are the fault of the workers who provide the services. That at least is the view of the Scottish government.
It put this “necessity” down to a number of causes, but high up in the mix were pay claims from workers in public services, particularly council workers.
As excuses go this one is more lame than most. It’s politicians who set budgets and make plans, not council staff. It’s a bit rich turning around and blaming a lack of free school meals on the women who cook them.
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With the Scottish government’s Budget day coming up in early December, BRENDA AITCHISON presses for public services to be properly funded at last after years of neglect and austerity
KATE RAMSDEN calls out the SNP’s political choices, citing STUC research showing billions could be raised through progressive taxation to fund vital social work and care — instead, we’re being threatened with more cuts
