The scale of UK cuts to local government spending highlights the additional support being given by the SNP Government to local authorities in difficult financial times.

The average reduction in funding in the UK is 4.4% - with some authorities facing cuts of over 8%.

In Scotland the SNP has kept average reductions in the face of Labour, Tory and Lib Dem budget cuts to only 2.6% as local authorities share of public spending increases.

SNP MSP for Glasgow and Deputy Convener of the Scottish Parliament's Local Government Committee Bob Doris said: "Yet again the harsh actions of the Tories in England show the importance of an SNP Government delivering for people across Scotland.

"As well as putting in place the funding for a council tax freeze, saving householders hundreds of pounds over four years the SNP has ensured local services have the priority they need with an increased share of funding for local authorities.

"Instead of using funding for essential local services, for police, teachers and a council tax freeze as a political tool opposition councils should look south of the border, accept the good deal they have been offered and make sure they are protecting the local services communities really value.

"When the Tories can do nothing but cut spending while the Lib Dems hold the scissors and Labour's only idea is to increase taxes by up to £3000 for every household it is only the SNP that has the experience and ideas to put the priorities of the people of Scotland first in these difficult times."