Scotland Bill

John Stevenson Excerpts

Monday 9th November 2015 Commons Chamber

[Dr Whiteford]

Perhaps a bit later.

I intend to test the will of the House on the new clause later. More than any other in recent times, the issue of tax credits highlights the contrast between a UK Government who are willing to put low-income families with children on the frontline in their ideological war of austerity and a Scottish Government determined to tackle inequality and to give those children a decent start in life.

[John Stevenson (Carlisle) (Con)]

If the SNP ever had control of tax credits, would it increase income tax to pay for them?

[Dr Whiteford]

I am glad that the hon. Gentleman has asked that question so early. Had he been listening to events in the Scottish Parliament last week he would know that Nicola Sturgeon has made clear commitments to mitigate the impact—