School of Social and Political Science

Description

On 7 May, voters will decide who controls devolved taxes, spending and public policy for next five years. The visions set out by the different parties differ in significant ways. But all will need to confront fiscal reality and a set of challenges for public services, the tax and benefit system, and the wider Scottish economy.

At this joint Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) and University of Edinburgh event, leading experts on these issues will set out the current fiscal and public policy context, and analyse the proposals for the next five years put forward by Scotland’s political parties.

• David Phillips, head of devolved and local government finance at the IFS, will first provide an overview of Scottish Government funding, public service spending and performance, and tax and benefit policy. He will then analyse the tax and spending proposals of the different parties – the similarities, the differences, and their consistency with the financial situation facing the next government.
• Ailsa Henderson, professor of political science at the University of Edinburgh, will discuss the economic and public policy issues that matter most to Scottish voters, and the extent to which campaigns influence voters’ perceptions and decisions. 
• Sean Smith, professor of Future Construction at the University of Edinburgh, will discuss future housing needs, construction outlook and the wider economic growth for the Edinburgh city region. 

Following the presentations you will be able to ask your questions; on the current policy context, on the parties plans, and on future challenges and opportunities for the next government.

This event is for any students, staff, local residents and other stakeholders interested in the fiscal and public policy context of the Scottish parliamentary elections.

Tickets are free but must be booked in advance via this link.

We will try to accommodate people who arrive that have not registered but space may not be available.

Please contact Frances Johnson at the University of Edinburgh if you have any questions about this event.