BARRHEAD’S MSP has called for his political opponents to get behind proposals to pump £15billion into health and care services.

The Scottish Government last week announced plans to increase spending on health services by £1bn – with local health and social care partnerships earmarked to receive nearly £9.5bn.

MSPs will vote on draft budget proposals next month, which include £117million for mental health funding.

Now Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur is calling on politicians from all parties to back the bill.

He said: “The SNP in government is investing record amounts in our NHS, to build a health service fit for the future.

“For the first time ever, this budget provides funding of over £15billion for our health and care services.

“As a cherished public service for the past seventy years, MSPs must do all we can to ensure our health service is properly funded.

“That’s why I’m calling on my political opponents to get behind the SNP’s plans that will protect our NHS – ensuring it remains safe in public hands and not put at risk.”