Dear {name} The latest Government Expenditure & Revenue Scotland (GERS) statistics were published this month – and once again they highlight the real cost of Scotland not being independent. These figures are often presented as a snapshot of Scotland’s finances, but let’s be clear: GERS is not a picture of what an independent Scotland would look like. It is an estimate of revenue raised here and money spent on Scotland’s behalf by Westminster – including billions on Trident nuclear weapons, the higher cost of UK Government debt, and the disastrous impact of Brexit, which has cut Scotland’s revenues by £2.3 billion. Despite those constraints, Scotland continues to perform strongly with the powers we do control: - Devolved revenue grew by 9.7% this year, compared to a 6.8% rise in expenditure.
- Revenues have grown faster than spending for the fourth year in a row.
- Scotland raises more tax per person than almost every other part of the UK – second only to London and the South East.
The truth is simple: decisions about Scotland are best taken here in Scotland. That’s why I believe we must go further. We urgently need a Scottish Research Institute to carry out detailed, independent economic analysis of our nation’s finances. This would give us a clearer picture of our potential, help shape policies for independence, and lay the groundwork for vital institutions like a future Scottish Central Bank. GERS shows us where we stand within the UK. A Research Institute would help us chart the future as an independent country – one where we can grow our economy and build a fairer society. Yours for Scotland, 
Martyn Day SNP Candidate for Falkirk East and Linlithgow PS - if you are enjoying these newsletters please pass them on to a friend or two. | 
