Sandra White MSP for the Glasgow Region and long standing Convener of the Cross Party Group on Older People Age and Ageing has given her backing to the Government's commitment to outlaw the much criticised charge councils have been levying for the food preparation.

Due to a lack in clear guidance and robust legislation introduced by the previous Scottish Executive many councils have been accused of cynically attempting to exploit this lack of clarity and charge pensioners for services which were always meant to be provided free.

Commenting on the announcement Ms White said: "I'm glad this ridiculous situation is finally being sorted out because for too long now Glasgow City Council and others have been hiding behind the ambiguous guidance issued by the Labour administration.

"This has led to the ludicrous situation where many older people find themselves being charged for things like the heating up meals, which have already been prepared by the family, in a microwave.

"Now the council will no longer be able to quibble over the meaning of certain words in order to charge for a service which was always intended to be free, this is to be welcomed, however I would also like to see an investigation into the high cost of care homes and will continue to press for such an investigation."