Pass Budget to thwart Elon Musk, John Swinney urges MSPs

He told reporters the first step would be to pass the Budget. He said doing so, and boosting confidence in the political system, could act as an “antidote” to the forces of populism.

“If the Budget doesn’t pass, then I think we’re playing right into the hands of Elon Musk and other populists,” Swinney said.

“I think we’re playing right into their hands because we’re demonstrating, or the political system is demonstrating, that it can’t address people’s day-to-day concerns.”

The SNP leader added that he did not have a “direct line” with Elon Musk and was not seeking one.

During his speech, Swinney warned against “political posturing and intransigence”.

He added: “Thwarting a budget may make some politicians feel good but it will be at the expense of Scotland’s NHS.

“It will be at the expense of Scotland’s pensioners. It will keep more children in poverty. It will be a political wrecking ball when what Scotland needs is recovery.”

Musk – who has been appointed as an efficiency tsar in Donald Trump’s incoming US administration – has repeatedly attacked Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government.

The world’s richest man has also backed Nigel Farage’s Reform party. However, over the weekend, he called for Farage to be replaced.

Musk has been asked to comment.