Scottish Government agree deal to work with Greens in Holyrood

The Scottish Government and the Scottish Green Party have agreed a deal to work together over the next five years in Holyrood.

Their aim will be to build a green economic recovery from Covid-19, respond to the climate emergency and create a fairer country. 

A shared draft policy programme includes details involving the climate emergency, economic recovery, child poverty, the natural environment, energy and the constitution.

These commitments include, holding a Scottish independence referendum after the Covid pandemic has passed, within the current parliamentary session. 

It also details a forward 10-yea £500 million Just Transition Fund for the north-east and Moray as well as increased investment in active travel and public transport. 

This includes a Fair Fares review to provide a realistic and affordable alternative to car use. 

Others include enhancing marine environmental protection and increase the level of Scottish Child Payment to maximise the impact on child poverty. 

Two Green MSPS will be nominated to be Scottish Government Ministers. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Government has reached a ground-breaking agreement with the Scottish Green Party that meets the challenges and opportunities of our time.

“The challenges we face have rarely been greater - the climate emergency, recovery from a global pandemic and an assault by the UK government on the powers of our Parliament.

“The agreement delivers bold policy action on pressing issues. A commitment to more affordable housing, a better deal for tenants and action to tackle poverty and inequality.

“Steps to accelerate our transition to net zero - more support for active travel, transformation of home energy and a ten year transition fund for the North East of Scotland. A focus on green jobs and fair work - and a sustainable recovery from COVID.

“We also reaffirm in this Agreement our shared commitment to securing independence for Scotland, and to giving people the right to choose our country’s future through a referendum.”

Green Party co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “This is a historic moment, which could not come at a more important time.

“We must build a fairer and compassionate country and we must do everything in our power to tackle the escalating climate and nature emergencies to deliver a just transition for all. That is what this deal will do.

“Fundamentally this is a new approach to politics. We agree on some things and disagree on others - those distinctive voices can and will remain.”

The draft agreements will now be considered by the respective political parties involved. 

Parliament will be updated following recess. 

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