Marra: ‘SNP should pass on energy payment to 1.8 million homes’

Commenting on the Budget, Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra said: Over 1.8 million households in Scotland would be eligible for the household energy payment if the SNP passes it on.

That money should be used to give Scots breathing space, not to plug holes in the Scottish Government Budget.

The UK Labour Budget gives breathing space for today and fresh hope for tomorrow.

Millions of Scots will benefit from Labour action on the cost of living such as the warm homes discount, scrapping VAT on energy bills, and scrapping the standard charge on gas.

This Budget backs industry, particularly in defence and energy, and I want to see the Scottish Government work to ensure Scotland can grab the opportunities that brings.

It means more money for Scottish public services. As a result of the Budget today, there will be a further £600m coming to the Scottish Government.

Since the election in 2024, the Scottish Government has received more than £18 billion in additional funding to spend on public services.

I want to work with the SNP to ensure this funding will deliver better outcomes from Scots, cutting waiting times in our NHS, raising attainment in our schools, lifting children out of poverty and growing our economy.