The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) has said that the latest Programme for Government highlights 'what can be achieved through industrial action and collective campaigning'.

STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: "The Scottish Government is to be commended for freezing rents. If implemented correctly – and we are pressing for further answers - this will help thousands of households across Scotland when they need it most.

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"When used, the powers of our Parliament can bring positive change This must now extend to Scotland’s tax powers. There are constraints but it simply isn’t true that Scotland has a finite budget. The Scottish Government could raise millions from income, wealth and business taxes. The Local Visitor Levy is a step in the right direction in this regard.

"In a cost-of-living emergency, we need strides – not steps. The Scottish Government could have coupled the welcome increase in the Scottish Child Payment with expanding universal free school meals to all. It’s a political choice not to feed hungry children; a choice we’re unwilling to accept.

"On Thursday we will make that clear as we march on the Scottish Parliament for better public sector pay in addition to wider action on the cost-of-living crisis.”