Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has challenged the Scottish National Party (SNP) to be honest about the financial issues it has created over 17 years in power, particularly in light of a recent report from the Scottish Fiscal Commission indicating significant budgetary pressures. He criticized the SNP for attempting to blame his newly elected Labour government for financial decisions that are largely of their own making, including a £500 million spending cut announced to address a £1 billion budget shortfall. Starmer emphasized that his government is making tough choices, such as means-testing the winter fuel payment, while insisting that the SNP must take responsibility for its financial mismanagement. SNP ministers, including John Swinney, have countered by attributing the financial strain to Westminster austerity, yet the Fiscal Commission's findings suggest that much of the responsibility lies with the SNP's own governance. Starmer's comments come amid ongoing tensions as both parties prepare for the upcoming political landscape, including the 2026 Holyrood elections. He reiterated his commitment to working collaboratively with the SNP if they are willing to address Scotland's challenges together.