Rutherglen MSP slams UK Labour after Scottish Government announces new winter heating payment for elderly

Rutherglen MSP Criticises UK Labour Over New Winter Heating Payment for Elderly

Rutherglen’s MSP has spoken out against the UK Labour Government following the recent announcement by the Scottish Government regarding a new winter heating payment for the elderly. Clare Haughey, the MSP for Rutherglen, condemned UK Labour, including Rutherglen’s Labour MP Michael Shanks, for what she referred to as a “disgraceful wrong.” This statement came after the Scottish Government unveiled plans to introduce a new payment to assist older individuals with their energy bills.

The support payment was revealed by Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, during a statement at Holyrood. The payment is set to be extended to all pensioners in Rutherglen and Cambuslang once the Scottish Government’s new Pension Age Winter Heating Payment is implemented next year. As the Ofgem energy price cap is scheduled to rise from £1,717 to £1,738 on January 1, the Scottish Government also announced a comprehensive £41 million support package for individuals facing challenges with energy costs this winter. This package includes an extra £20 million for the Scottish Welfare Fund to offer essential assistance to those in crisis, and an additional £20 million allocated to the Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme.

In response to the announcement, Haughey highlighted that Scottish Labour MPs, including Michael Shanks, had supported a reduction in the Winter Fuel Payment for 900,000 Scots, a move that was opposed by SNP MPs. Additionally, Scottish Labour MSPs voted against a motion at Holyrood, put forward by First Minister John Swinney, urging the UK Government to abandon the proposed cuts.

Haughey stated, “The announcement of this new support by the Scottish Government has righted a disgraceful wrong by the UK Labour government, ensuring pensioners in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are supported at a time of soaring energy bills and shameful inaction from the UK Government.” She went on to emphasise that the new payment would be crucial for nearly a million Scots and commended the SNP Government for prioritising the welfare of the people in Scotland.

In response, Shanks argued that the measures were only possible due to significant investment in Scotland by the UK Labour Government. He stressed the need for the SNP to utilise the additional funds provided by the Labour government to improve public services and rectify past mistakes.

In conclusion, the clash between Rutherglen’s MSP and the UK Labour Government highlights the ongoing debate surrounding support for the elderly during the winter season, especially in the face of rising energy costs. The Scottish Government’s commitment to providing essential aid to pensioners in Rutherglen and Cambuslang serves as a positive step towards ensuring the well-being of older individuals in the region.