THE SCOTTISH Government’s record during 2012 has demonstrated the case for independence, according to the Deputy First Minister.
Nicola Sturgeon claimed the Government’s achievements in tackling unemployment, supporting public services and improving health and education contrasted with policies adopted at Westminster.
She said record police numbers in Scotland compared with a fall in officers in England and Wales, while an increase in acceptances to Scottish universities for 2012-13 contrasted with a decrease at English institutions.
Scotland also has a smaller percentage of unemployed young people compared with UK figures, the Deputy First Minister said.
Ms Sturgeon also listed the Scottish Government’s commitment to renewable energy, protection for the NHS budget, new schools and housing, and the council tax freeze among its achievements.
She said: “As the year ends and in the face of tough economic times there is a real record of delivery in Scotland.
“We have delivered on key commitments to improve health, education and support jobs while the social wage and council tax freeze, that other parties want to remove, are helping households across the country in difficult times.
“Our growth industries such as renewables and food and drink are thriving internationally.
“This is the record of delivery and success that we can achieve, against the odds, when the responsibility is in Scotland’s hands.”