Glasgow SNP MSP Bob Doris has today (Friday) welcomed the announcement from Communities Minister Alex Neil of the Scottish Government’s ‘Energy Assistance Package’. The £60 million per annum fund – 30% more than the original fuel budget – will be aimed at assisting the most vulnerable members of society, pensioners and low income families.

The scheme will take effect on 6th April this year and will include benefit and tax credit and tariff checks to ensure that Glasgow’s residents are receiving the correct income and are paying the correct bill, as well as providing central heating and insulation.

Commenting Bob Doris MSP said: "This is a very welcome announcement from the Scottish Government and I am pleased they are continuing to fight the problem of fuel poverty by acting on the Scottish Fuel Poverty Forum’s report so quickly. This will go along way to helping the residents of Glasgow.

"I am particularly pleased that this will help Scotland get our fair share of Carbon Emmisions Reduction Target (CERT) cash from energy companies. Currently we receive about £100m less than we should. The Scottish Government's joined up thinking in accepting ther recommendations of the Fuel Poverty Forum could boost the record £60m Scottish Government money by another £100m.

"I am also pleased that energy efficiency measures such as new central heating systems will now be open to those on qualifiying benefits that have children under 5, pregnant mothers or disabled children under 16. Together with rolling out insulation this is a step change in addressing fuel poverty.

"Fuel Poverty is a serious problem not only in our city but across the whole of Scotland with one in four households now class as fuel poor. During these times of economic uncertainty and job losses, it is good to see a Government acting and attempting to boost incomes, lower fuel bills and improve energy efficiency - London Labour should follow suit."