Tories: still nothing to say on this election's key issues
For immediate release 4 April 2011
Today's Tory manifesto launch confirms that they remain unfit to have a role in Scotland's government, Greens today argued, citing their failure to mention poverty and inequality, their plans to saddle students with a lifetime of debt, and their lack of credibility on climate change and renewable energy. They also make very clear that a series of dead-end motorway projects are their priority for transport, not investment in public transport, let alone walking and cycling.
Patrick Harvie said:
"The Tories have today issued a manifesto from another Scotland, some delusional Scotland where tackling poverty isn't worth a mention, where Jeremy Clarkson can write policy on transport and climate change, and where it doesn't matter if universities are exclusive clubs for those with the money to pay. Given the slash-and-burn economics they're delivering at Westminster, it is absolutely no surprise that the Tories have nothing constructive to say on public services, on tackling inequality, and protecting our environment. They are the deficit delinquents, still unable to grasp that whacking the Scottish economy and public only makes sense if you're a masochist, George Osborne or Danny Alexander.
"On jobs and the economy they appear to think that slashing public services and forcing up unemployment is the answer. It didn't work in the 1980s and it won't work now. A Scottish Parliament where the Tories hold the balance of power would be just about the worst possible outcome in May. They have learnt nothing since the Thatcher years, they are out of touch with Scotland, and they are unfit to have any role in this country's next government."