The SNP’s Budget sums have been questioned in an independent report on “uncertain” funding pledges.
Researchers at the Scottish Parliament said the Government had “only partially” answered how it will pay for free policies including bus travel for under-19s.
The travel subsidy was a key concession to the Green party who sided with the SNP to pass the draft budget in a vote last night.
Scottish finance secretary Kate Forbes had said £15million will be set aside to investigate the bus plan.
An extra £173million added to the original draft budget to get Green support.
The Government said funds had been identified from the fossil fuel levy, UK cash and future business rates.
The new Holyrood analysis warned: “So how will these additional funding commitments totalling £173million be funded?
“The letter outlining the terms of the deal provides only partial answers to this question.” In parliament, Tories, Lib Dem and Labour MSPs criticised the overall budget package but SNP and Greens outvoted them to pass the plan.
Council leaders at the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities said they will still face “significant budget pressures” and a drop in capital spending.
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