Reeves could hand Scotland £1bn cut in public spending

THE SNP Finance Secretary has admitted she may have to increase income tax again if the UK Government hands her a £1billion public spending cut.

- BY PAUL HUTCHEON

Shona Robison said she could have to “potentially revisit” tax plans amid reports the Chancellor is eyeing hikes of her own.

First Minister John Swinney last month said he would not increase income tax in his pre-election Budget in January.

But his comments are in doubt over speculation about Chancellor Rachel Reeves' tax and spending plans on November 26.

Reeves is believed to be looking at increasing income tax by 2p in the pound while at the same time cutting National Insurance by the same amount.