Glasgow SNP MSP Bob Doris – a member of the Scottish Parliament's Local Government and Communities Committee – has welcomed a joint statement by the Scottish Government and COSLA outlining a framework to combat poverty and income inequality.

Mr Doris, who tabled a Parliamentary Question on the issue, said: "In such tough economic times it is good news that the Scottish Government and Scotland's local government are working together to tackle these very important issues.

"The SNP Government has shown its commitment to tackling poverty with our focus on increasing the installation of free central heating for pensioners, extending that scheme to include young families on benefits and the introduction of free school meals.

"The SNP has a new level of ambition for Scotland and we are resolute in our aim to deliver a fairer and wealthier Scotland.

"This joint Framework with COSLA shows how the SNP are committed to delivering a fairer and wealthier Scotland by working with our local councils.

"And just as the Scottish Government has shown its faith in Scotland's local government by freeing up how they spend their money it is now time for the London government to follow that example and allow Scotland to have responsibility for our personal taxation and benefits system."

Notes:

1. Mr Doris's Parliamentary Question and Answer are as follows:

Bob Doris (Glasgow) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive  when it intends to launch its response to Taking Forward The Government Economic Strategy: A Discussion Paper on Tackling Poverty, Inequality and Deprivation in Scotland. (S3W-18107)

Ms Nicola Sturgeon: I will launch the Scottish Government's framework to tackle poverty and income inequality in Scotland - "Achieving Our Potential" - later today. A central element of the Framework is high level agreement between the Scottish Government and COSLA on priorities for action and investment to support those currently experiencing poverty, tackle income inequalities and address the long term drivers of the poverty which has blighted Scotland for generations.

2. The Scottish Government's release can be accessed here.