Oral Answers to Questions

Julie Elliott Excerpts

Wednesday 28th June 2023 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jack]

My right hon. Friend is absolutely right. Business does not like uncertainty, and the constant harping on about independence is causing uncertainty among business. The devolved Administration in Scotland should focus on the things that they were set up to do: education standards, the health service, drug deaths and getting some ferries rather than trying to create the island clearances.

[Julie Elliott (Sunderland Central) (Lab)]

2. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the cost of living in Scotland.

[Steven Bonnar (Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill) (SNP)]

4. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the impact of cost of living increases on households in Scotland.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (John Lamont)]

These questions show the originality of thought among the Opposition parties. The United Kingdom Government recognise the challenges facing households due to elevated costs of living and so have taken action to protect struggling families with the largest support package in Europe. UK-wide, support to households to help with higher bills is worth £94 billion, or £3,300 per household on average.

[Julie Elliott]

Over the winter, too many have had to make the decision whether to heat or eat—in fact, too many could not afford to do either. With food inflation well in excess of 15%, and much higher on specific staple items, people simply cannot afford to eat. What advice does the Minister have for households in Scotland, and those in Sunderland who I represent, who are worried about being able to provide food for their families?

[John Lamont]

Inflation is a problem affecting many western economies, particularly those in Europe, and it is right that this Government continue to provide cost of living support while sticking to our plan to avoid adding unnecessary inflationary pressures. The average household in Scotland receives £1,850 from the UK Government, with the poorest households receiving £2,445. About £5.2 billion was spent in 2022-23, which is more than the Scottish Government’s entire annual welfare budget.