Scottish Green Party announces plan with Government to build a green economic recovery

The Bute House Agreement is a draft policy programme between the Green Party and the Government to address issues including climate emergency, economic recovery from COVID, child poverty and energy over the next five years.

The agreement aims to improve the way Scotland is governed and create a stable platform to meet the challenges Scotland faces.

Key commitments include increased investment in travel and transport, strengthened support for the marine renewables and offshore wind sectors, and enhanced marine environmental protection.

The level of the Scottish Child Payment will increase, in addition to the implementation of an effective national system of rent control, which will deliver 110,000 affordable homes by 2032.

An investment of £1.8 billion will be used towards energy efficiency and renewable heating, and at least one new National Park will be designated by the end of this parliamentary session.

To ensure these groups work together, two Green MSPs will be nominated to be Scottish Government Ministers.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The agreement delivers bold policy action on pressing issues. A commitment to more affordable housing, a better deal for tenants and action to tackle poverty and inequality. Steps to accelerate our transition to net zero - more support for active travel, transformation of home energy and a ten year transition fund for the North East of Scotland. A focus on green jobs and fair work - and a sustainable recovery from COVID.

“We also reaffirm in this Agreement our shared commitment to securing independence for Scotland, and to giving people the right to choose our country’s future through a referendum.

Green Party co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “This is a historic moment, which could not come at a more important time. We must build a fairer and compassionate country and we must do everything in our power to tackle the escalating climate and nature emergencies to deliver a just transition for all. That is what this deal will do.”