SNP's Record Scrutinized Amidst Mixed Pledges

On March 25, Holyrood has wrapped up for the May election, kicking off six weeks of policy debates across Scotland's parties.

The SNF faces tough scrutiny on its record since the 2021 manifesto, with leader John Swinney defending achievements amid leadership.

Changes and a broken green pact. Key pledges show a mixed bag from big wins to delays and drop-offs.

Health funding topped a list, exceeding the 20% front line boost with a 28% rise, nearly 5 billion pounds more.

Staff paid deals beat the promise 4% average too. But the National Care Service plan crumbled under criticism over costs and details, leaving social care uneven.

Taxes were supposed to stay frozen, yet higher rates rose opinion in 2023, and again later, blamed on the Ukraine war and cost of living.

Squeeze. Education hit snags, with teacher numbers dipping before a recent pivot and extra prep time secured just before strikes.

The attainment gap lingers despite 1 billion pounds invested, while child payments double to over 28 pounds weekly.

Housing pushes toward 110,000 affordable homes by 2032, with over 31,000 done so far and 4.9.

Billion pounds pledged. Scott rail went public as promised, peak fairs vanished, though rail decarbonization slipped to 2045.

Voters will weigh this record in May, deciding if the SNP earns a fifth term and keeps Independence referendum hopes alive.