Representatives from Police Scotland and Colleges Scotland appeared before Holyrood’s Finance Committee to flag what they described as a looming funding crisis, warning that the upcoming Scottish budget does not contain sufficient resources to sustain key public services.
Deputy First Minister and Finance Secretary Jenny Gilruth is scheduled to present her tax and spending plans for the 2027‑28 fiscal year on Dec. 3. In response to committee questions, Gilruth said the government has been “explicit with our colleagues in government” that under‑funding the police would be unsustainable and could lead to “significant workforce reduction and serious workforce implications.” She also highlighted “key areas” such as community policing and programmes to combat violence against women and girls as priorities for any future spending.
Dave Moxham, deputy general secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress, warned that the cabinet secretary “is not going to be able to manage this,” adding that “we are looking at cuts upon cuts upon cuts in the period ahead.” He said the proposed fiscal restraint threatens the ability of public sector bodies to deliver essential services.
Colleges Scotland echoed the concerns, describing the potential shortfall as a “catastrophe” that could see some institutions “go bust.” The sector, which trains much of Scotland’s future workforce, faces the risk of “wobbling” if funding does not keep pace with demand, according to the colleges’ leadership.
The Finance Committee’s scrutiny comes amid a broader trend of reduced core funding for third‑sector organisations, a point raised by committee member Mr. Henderson, who warned that without basic financial support, charities and community groups cannot keep the lights on or deliver projects that local communities rely on.
Committee members are expected to press the government for clearer funding commitments before the Dec. 3 budget launch, with the possibility that the warnings could shape the final spending package.