Local MP Martin Docherty-Hughes has called on the UK government to act over concerns about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis in West Dunbartonshire.
According to a new survey, almost half (46%) of households in West Dunbartonshire say they can’t afford to turn the heating on during cold weather.
Research commissioned by campaign group 38Degrees on the cost-of-living crisis also shows that 35% fear they may have to use a foodbank due to soaring bills. 1 in 5 (20%) of households in Clydebank, Dumbarton and the Vale also say they have missed a rent payment in the past six months.
Ahead of next week’s spring budget, the area’s MP Martin Docherty-Hughes is challenging the UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to do more to help struggling families.
The SNP is calling for a comprehensive budget package to boost household incomes and tackle soaring energy bills.
The call comes as new research reveals Scots face paying the highest energy bills in the UK, with the typical household in Scotland having to fork out close to £3,500 a year in energy bills.
Commenting, Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said:
“These stark figures underline the difficulties facing struggling households in West Dunbartonshire as the UK government fails to get a grip of the cost-of-living crisis.
“It’s outrageous that in energy-rich Scotland my constituents can’t afford to heat their homes. Westminster control of the energy market is allowing energy companies to rake in billions while families here are forced into foodbanks.
“My call to the Chancellor for the upcoming spring budget is simple – put money back into people’s pockets and stop ripping off hard-working households.
“The Prime Minister and his Chancellor need to recognise the financial pressures facing households in West Dunbartonshire and across the country.
“If they fail to deliver the support families need then it shows once again that only independence can secure the real change Scotland needs.”
