SNP GOVERNMENT FOCUSSING ON FIGHTING FUEL POVERTY

LABOUR SLASHES FUEL POVERTY BUDGET IN ENGLAND



SNP GOVERNMENT FOCUSSING ON FIGHTING FUEL POVERTY



Commenting on figures from the Pre-Budget Report which show that the Labour government in London will slash the budget for fuel poverty programmes by 50% south of the border by 2010 Glasgow SNP MSP Bob Doris welcomed the First Minister's comments that the SNP Government's programme would, by 2010 see increased funding and be equal to a massive 28% as a proportion of the Labour government's programme south of the border. Between 2008 and 2010 the English Warm Front scheme will see its funding cut by 50%.



In contrast the SNP Government's programme will increase by over 20%



Mr Doris raised the issue at First Minister's Questions today (Thursday) as official figures showed the number of people living in fuel poverty was rising.



Speaking after he raised the matter with the First Minister Mr Doris said:



"These figures expose Labour's hypocrisy on social justice. Far from being a party that helps those most in need these figures from south of the border show the stark contrast between Labour in power and the SNP in Government in Scotland.



"In such economically challenging times it is unbelievable that Gordon Brown and Alistair Darling are slashing the fuel poverty budget in England. This will be greeted with horror by vulnerable families south of the Border.



"Despite the tightest funding settlement since devolution, the SNP Government has actually expanded its fuel poverty programme, and are spending proportionately double the level of Labour's spending in England.



"In addition the Scottish Government is also working hard to ensure a fair share of the money for the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT).



"As well as combating fuel poverty, this is also part of the Scottish Government's programme of investment to help the economy and families during tough times."