Following the publication of new figures which show that 716 people are affected in Perth and Kinross, John Swinney MSP has called on the UK Government to immediately abolish this unfair charge. The SNP remains committed to abolishing the Bedroom Tax when new social security powers in the Scotland Bill are devolved.

The Scottish Government has now committed £90 million since the introduction of the Bedroom Tax to ensure it is fully mitigated in Scotland.

Commenting, John Swinney said:

“These figures highlight the shocking impact the Bedroom Tax could have had on families in Scotland – 716 people in Perth and Kinross would have otherwise been affected.

“While families in England and Wales continue to face iniquitous charge, the SNP government has fully mitigated its impact in Scotland.

“The SNP has consistently opposed the Bedroom Tax and is committed to abolishing the levy when the Scottish Parliament has the powers to do so.

“The UK Government must recognise the impact of this hated levy on families across England and Wales and on public finances in Scotland. The simplest and fairest solution remains for the measure to be dropped by the DWP.

“When he sets out his spending plans later this month, George Osborne should use this as an opportunity to protect the poorest and abolish the Bedroom Tax.”

The DWP figures can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/housing-benefit-caseload-statistics

https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/housing-benefit-caseload-statistics