Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron has called on the SNP Government to pass on money to Argyll and Bute Council to help it invest in local schools.

Mr Cameron spoke after the UK Government announced that the Scottish Government would receive an extra £2bn in funding through the Barnett Formula, following the prime minister’s announcement of extra funding for schools in England.

The Scottish Conservative MSP said:

“The SNP has a dismal record on education with our standards declining compared to many other countries during the 12 years that they've been in power.

“However this extra cash from the UK Government, coming Scotland’s way because of the Barnett formula, gives them an opportunity to make amends by passing on funds to the council to invest in schools across Argyll and Bute.

“The life chances of children across Argyll and Bute would be greatly enhanced if this money is spent wisely, and I urge Nicola Sturgeon's government to pass on the cash.”

Cllr Yvonne McNeilly (Cowal ward), Conservative policy lead for education, welcomed Donald Cameron’s intervention. She said: “I’m sure that Donald is speaking for people across Argyll and Bute.

“The council badly needs more financial support from the Scottish Government and I very much hope that as a result of this announcement we are able to invest more in our schools.”