Scottish Government: Social Security Benefits

Lord Forsyth of Drumlean Excerpts

Wednesday 24th June 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Livermore (Lab)]

I agree; I am strong supporter of not blaming the UK Government. As the noble Baroness knows, funding is assessed through the fiscal framework, which links welfare block grant adjustments directly to UK Government spending on equivalent benefits. These adjustments are calculated on a forecast basis and reconciled on outturn, ensuring that funding reflects actual spending over time. The Scottish Government are then responsible for spending decisions, including on benefit levels and eligibility. Any additional spending on benefits is a choice for the Scottish Government and must come from within their own budget.

[The Lord Speaker (Lord Forsyth of Drumlean)]

My Lords, the noble Lord, Lord Shinkwin, is taking part remotely. I invite him to speak.

[Lord Shinkwin (Con) [V]]

My Lords, in the event of our being at war, which some experts suggest is increasingly likely by 2030, the massive and urgent recalibration of resources to defence will inevitably mean that those who need most support due to their disability will be hit the hardest. What advice are His Majesty’s Government giving to the Scottish Government on the careful management of their social security budget so that they can mitigate the worst effects of such an eventuality on those whose disability makes them most dependent?