Ministers mark own 'report card'

Ministers have marked themselves on their record

A "report card" compiled by the Scottish Executive about the Scottish Executive claims it has delivered on 92% of its promises.

The checklist suggests that of 327 detailed policy commitments since 1999, 247 were either achieved already or were "ongoing", and a further 54 were "on track" to be achieved.

First Minister Jack McConnell welcomed the report, but opponents claim the exercise is a sham and that people see no real improvement in hospitals, schools or the economy.

It has been attacked by the Scottish National Party (SNP) as "a litany of bad excuses".

Jack McConnell said devolution was delivering

The report includes "double counting" on some achievements - a pledge to end rough sleeping by next year makes two appearances in the "on track" category.

Some goals are described in general terms: "We will invest further in the exciting opportunities opened up by recent research in life sciences."

The executive counts that commitment as having been achieved.

Mr McConnell said: "This is a good report card by any standards, and one I am proud to share with people in Scotland.

"The achievements underline that devolution has made a difference in Scotland."

'Self congratulation'

He said the achievements included a new NHS waiting times unit, more doctors and nurses, 100 new or refurbished schools and nursery places for three- and four-year-olds.

Mr McConnell added: "After just three and a half years, devolution is starting to deliver."

But John Swinney, the leader of the SNP, said that back slapping and self congratulation was no substitute for delivery.

John Swinney was dismissive of the report

He said: "The Scottish Executive's Record of Achievement reads like a litany of bad excuses.

"No matter how many glossy documents they produce to pat themselves on the back, what matters is delivery on the ground.

"People's experience is of a government that is long on promises and short on delivery."

Mr Swinney said there were serious problems in Scotland with the economy, the health service, child poverty, crime and education.