Labour Calls Out Half Baked National Care Service Bill

29th February 2024

Speaking ahead of the Stage One debate on the government's National Care Service bill, Scottish Labour health spokesperson Jackie Baillie said: "Scottish Labour is steadfast in its support for a National Care Service worthy of the name. But the botched bill that the SNP, supported by the Greens, is trying to force through parliament is well short of what is needed.

“After an almost two year delay, the SNP is now trying to railroad through a bill that is fundamentally flawed and will do nothing to address the crisis in social care right now.

“That this SNP Government is trying to paint itself as the champion of a National Care Service after opposing the principle for a decade is laughable. This Bill, as it stands, is a shocking betrayal of those in our communities who so desperately need a National Care Service the most. No wonder stakeholders are lining up to criticise the SNP’s approach, from Trade Unions and care providers to those with lived experience.

“Only Scottish Labour has a plan to deliver the National Care Service we need, to boost care workers pay and conditions, to deliver Anne’s Law and the Right to Respite Care, and to finally put social care on the same level as our NHS."