Two Lanarkshire MSPs have called on Westminster to offer more support for funeral plan holidays.
SNP MSPs Clare Adamson and Fulton MacGregor are calling on the UK Government to set up a support scheme for people affected by the collapse of pre-paid funeral providers.
Earlier this year, one such company, Safe Hands, fell into administration after the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) brought in new regulations for firms that provide and arrange prepaid funeral plans.
Several pre-planned funeral providers have ceased trading after falling foul of the new regulations.
Ms Adamson, MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw, has already raised the issue with the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in the Scottish Parliament.
She said: “Regulation of these pre-planned funeral providers was long overdue and the FCA’s new protections are welcome.
“But the collapse of companies like Safe Hands and One Life has left thousands of people unsure of where to turn next.
“Given that regulation was the responsibility of the UK Government, it is right that the Government provides support to those affected.
“This cost-of-living crisis has been exacerbated by UK Government economic mismanagement. People took out these plans to give some certainty at the end of life; they simply cannot afford to cover the cost of a new plan.
“The UK Government must redress the injustice that has been caused by their slow movement in regulating the sector. Many of our constituents have lost their savings; they need help now.”
Fulton MacGregor, MSP for Coatbridge and Chryston, added: “The Financial Conduct Authority were correct to ensure that up to date regulations were implemented.
"However, the consequences of these measures were that many of my constituents have lost significant sums with little room for recourse.
“While some local and nationals firms decision to help those affected is commendable, it is ultimately up to the UK Government to help those affected as it was their decision to implement regulations which led to this financial stress.
“The security that my constituents thought they had has now been eroded, and this must be rectified.“
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