FIRST MINISTER Humza Yousaf’s council tax freeze was branded “feckless” today by Scotland’s largest public-sector union.

Unison Scotland has spoken out after the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) published a financial briefing which estimated the cost of the freeze could top £14 billion if it is “fully funded” as Mr Yousaf had promised.

The SNP leader made the pledge at his party conference this year, but immediately came under fire for having not consulted with councils, or even SNP councillors, on the move.

Finance secretary Shona Robison last week warned of job cuts as she grappled with a £1bn budget shortfall, but Unison has now warned of a “disaster” if Mr Yousaf’s council tax freeze goes ahead.

A Unison Scotland spokesman told the Star: “The dismal picture painted here is not a surprise and it’s to be hoped that Cosla keep making this case up to — and if necessary beyond — the Scottish government’s budget.

“A financially feckless council tax freeze will be a disaster for local services.

“Communities and council staff deserve better from Holyrood.”