What's happened
The UK autumn statement has left the Scottish government with limited room for maneuver in setting its budget, leading to the possibility of job cuts in the public sector.
Why it matters
The potential job cuts in the public sector in Scotland are significant as they are a direct result of the UK autumn statement and will impact the Scottish budget and public services.
What the papers say
The Times says that the Scottish government has limited room for maneuver in setting its budget due to the UK autumn statement, which has left them with difficult decisions to make regarding job cuts in the public sector. The Independent highlights that the Scottish government has had to make £680 million in savings from this year's budget and calls on the UK government to prioritize public services over tax cuts in the autumn statement. The Times also reports that Scotland will experience slight growth up to 2026, according to forecasts from the EY Item Club.
How we got here
The Scottish government has been dealing with financial pressures due to prolonged Westminster austerity and has urged the UK government to provide additional funding to support public services.
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