COLD COMFORT FROM SCOTLAND OFFICE FOR FUEL POOR

COLD COMFORT FROM SCOTLAND OFFICE FOR FUEL POOR

SNP CALL FOR EXTENSION OF COLD WEATHER PAYMENTS

SNP Energy Spokesperson Mike Weir MP today (Wednesday) called upon the UK Government to take action to increase the level of cold weather payments and extend them to other vulnerable groups in light of extreme weather conditions which continue to affect much of Scotland.

At present these payments are paid to those on pension credit and certain low income benefits but many others, including those with severe health problems, do not get help.

Speaking after Scottish Questions in the House of Commons, Mr Weir said that he was disappointed by the partisan and unthinking response from Scottish Office Minister Ann McKechin:

“During this unprecedented cold spell, many thousands of Scots are finding it increasingly difficult to heat their homes. The Scottish House Conditions Survey demonstrates that those who are not on the gas grid are twice as likely to suffer fuel poverty as those who have access to the grid.

“Cold weather payments help many families but they are only available to a restricted group. Urgent action is needed to extend and increase cold weather payments to help the very many vulnerable Scots who are facing serious problems in these very difficult times.

“While she should be tackling fuel poverty, the Minister was indulging in partisan nonsense. This will be cold comfort to the fuel poor.

“Those Scots suffering fuel poverty deserve better.”