WIREDGOV

Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil today welcomed news that the Scottish Futures Trust (SFT) saved the Scottish public sector £131 million during 2011/12.

The SFT, tasked with improving value for money from our public-sector infrastructure, today published its annual benefits statement.

The independently verified report illustrates that SFT has met its financial target to release savings of between £100m and £150m per annum for the third year in a row.

Alex Neil said:

“The Scottish Government is doing all it can to maximise investment into infrastructure projects across Scotland. 

"The savings SFT achieved last year, in collaboration with a wide range of public sector bodies, allow us to deliver more – more houses and schools, more health and community projects. Each extra £100m we invest supports 1400 jobs in the Scottish economy

“But while we are doing what we can, there is no question that swingeing cuts imposed on us by Westminster are impeding our efforts to support infrastructure investment and jobs.

“That is why the SFT’s work and the savings they are delivering across the public sector is so important. Going forward, I know the SFT will continue to push forward with plans to develop new, alternative and innovative financing models for infrastructure across Scotland.

“This will result in a good deal for taxpayers. And more high quality infrastructure like schools and health centres across Scotland that will benefit generations to come.''