The SNP joined the STUC today in urging the Lib Dems to ensure people do not lose essential help and support through the coalition’s welfare reform plans.
SNP MP and Work and Pensions spokeswoman Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP said:
“The STUC are right to raise concerns over Tory and Lib Dem plans to reform the benefits system.
“No one wants to see cheats benefitting from the welfare system but there are plenty of people who have paid their contributions and earned the support and safety net that benefits provide, particularly during a recession.
“Reform of the welfare system must be done carefully, not in the way the Tories and Lib Dems seem to be going about it. The right incentives and support for work must be put in place alongside proper safeguards to ensure those who need support are able to get it.
“There will be many Scots deeply disappointed with the stance being taken by the Lib Dems that could deprive them of their hard earned and paid for rights and of essential help when it is needed.
“With independent assessments showing the Tory Lib Dem budget will hit the poorest hardest I and the SNP will be working hard to hold the UK Government to account, to make sure these changes do not push more people into poverty and that those ordinary Scots who should have access to public support continue to get it.”