First Report - Cost of living: impact on rural communities in Scotland
Select Committee
Scottish Affairs Committee
HC 153
24 January 2024
Government response
Second Special Report - Cost of living: impact on rural communities in Scotland: Government Response to the Committee’s First Report of Session 2023–24 · published 18 Apr 2024
Recommendations & Conclusions
3 results
3
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Para 33
Blanket energy support failed to 'rural-proof' for Scottish households, disadvantaging off-grid users.
Conclusion
The unprecedented package of financial support delivered to households across Great Britain by the UK Government last winter was welcome and helped to mitigate the full impact of the dramatic energy price increases experienced during the period. However, the Committee …
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Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the Committee's observations regarding the previous winter's energy support not being sufficiently 'rural-proofed'. It explains that schemes prioritised speed over tailoring and highlights existing support for off-grid households through the Alternative Fuel Payment, alongside other cost-of-living measures.
Scotland Office
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6
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Mandate the Scottish Government to address concerns regarding food insecurity and poverty.
Conclusion
We hope to hear from the Scottish Government on how they will respond and address these concerns. (Paragraph 38) Food insecurity and food poverty
Government Response Summary
The UK Government notes the recommendation and recognises the importance of rural communities, but does not commit to any specific actions or provide a timeline for addressing food insecurity and food poverty concerns itself.
Scotland Office
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7
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Para 59
Severe hardship and increased food bank reliance evident in remote rural Scottish communities.
Conclusion
We are deeply concerned by the real hardship being experienced across many rural communities in Scotland, such as parents having to skip meals in order feed their children. Food banks provide a vital service in remote rural Scotland. There has …
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Government Response Summary
The government notes the committee's concern and recognises the importance of rural communities, but provides no specific actions to address the hardship or increased demand for food banks.
Scotland Office
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