The Cotland finance secretary has called on the chancellor not to “face the significant challenges” as a result of the cost of living crisis.
Speaking ahead of the spring statement, which is expected on Wednesday – where Rishi Sunak will present plans to address rising gas prices and living costs – Kate Forbes pushed for action.
The Scottish Government announced last week that it would increase eight per cent benefits it offers by six per cent – and Ms Forbes has asked her UK counterpart to do the same.
“This is not a time to address the significant challenges we face, and I expect the Chancellor to use the Spring Declaration to outline significant actions to support households and businesses, given that most of the relevant forces reserved for the UK government, the finance secretary said.
“The Scottish Government is doing everything it can to help the most. We are upgrading eight Scottish benefits by six per cent from 1 April as well as doubling our Scottish child benefit to £ 20 per week per eligible child. I am calling the UK once again Government to follow our lead and increase social security benefits by six percent.
Ms Forbes also called on the Chancellor to implement business relief on national insurance contributions, which provide direct financing for sectors affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as well as to remove VAT on energy-efficient heating equipment and reduce it entirely from energy bills. to delete.
The finance minister added that there should be power to increase the level of flexible working – to enable more people to return to work – along with two other cold pay cuts – one paid directly and another this winter.
When I talk about security, yes – I mean the response to the war in Ukraine, but I also mean the security of a faster growing economy
The chancellor is expected to use Wednesday’s statement to address the cost of living crisis, but also to stress the importance of a strong economy in responding to Russia’s threat following its invasion of Ukraine.
“We will face this challenge to our values not only in the weapons and resources we send to Ukraine, but in strengthening our economy at home,” Mr Sunak said.
“So when I talk about security, yes – I mean responding to the war in Ukraine, but I also mean the security of a faster growing economy.
“The security of more resilient public finances.
“In safety for working families as we help with the cost of living.”
Around £ 21 billion in support is expected to be announced on Wednesday, including £ 9.1 billion in energy bill discounts and freezing fuel and alcohol duties.
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