THE Scottish Government has said it is “deeply disappointing” that it was not consulted before Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a slew of cuts in a bid to tackle a £22 billion black hole in public finances.
Amongst the cuts, the Chancellor confirmed the Winter Fuel Payment will be scrapped for those not in receipt of benefits.
The decision is expected to affect millions of people, with questions raised about the impact it will have in Scotland.
The Scottish Government is taking over responsibility for the Winter Fuel Payment and is introducing the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which is expected to be in place by this winter.
Once the responsibility has been transferred, the UK Government will provide a Block Grant Adjustment for the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
However, it is understood that the scrapping of the Winter Fuel Payment will “reduce the funding given” for the Scottish equivalent.
Whilst the full implications of the Chancellor’s statement are still being examined by the Scottish Government, a spokesperson told The National that it is “deeply disappointing” there was no discussion between the two governments ahead of the announcement.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Responsibility for Winter Fuel Payment will be transferred to the Scottish Government this winter (2024-25), with these payments funded from within the 2024-25 Scottish Budget.
“The full implications of the Chancellor’s statement are being examined, however it’s understood means-testing Winter Fuel Payments will reduce the funding given to the Scottish Government associated with our planned replacement Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
“That such a change can be made without any consultation or discussion with the Scottish Government Ministers is deeply disappointing given both governments committed to resetting the relationship between them.
“The Scottish Government is committed to tackling fuel poverty and has consistently supported vulnerable households through a range of actions.
“We are keen to develop an understanding of the UK Government’s wider plans to protect energy customers in greatest need, such as a social energy tariff.”
