All of society has a part to play in tackling poverty

THE Scottish Government has never lacked ambition when it comes to breaking new ground.

We are determined to be innovative in our efforts to tackle poverty and build a fairer nation.

That’s why I will join experts and colleagues from across the political spectrum today and co-chair the first meeting of a new group set up to examine how we can establish and deliver a

Minimum Income Guarantee. As policies go, it’s radical and bold, designed so everyone receives enough to live a dignified, healthy and financially secure life.

A Minimum Income Guarantee is not solely a social security payment or a top up of existing benefits. It can be met through a combination of employment, tax relief and social security benefits and also through access to universal services such as childcare and transport.

All of society has a part to play in tackling poverty, including employers. We must encourage secure, well-paid employment.

A recent poll by the respected Joseph Rowntree Foundation showed 77 per cent of Scots supported the idea of a Minimum Income Guarantee.

Other organisations, including The Poverty Alliance, support developing the policy as a way to tackle poverty in Scotland for those on low incomes.

Introducing a Minimum Income Guarantee won’t be easy and it won’t happen overnight.

But it will help in our efforts to eliminate poverty and inequality from Scotland.