New law is landmark in changing benefit rules
and indeed our ambitions to create a fairer and more equal country. Not only was it historic for the Scottish Parliament but it was also historic for our devolution journey. It gives the Scottish Government and the Scottish Parliament the opportunity to make different choices and shows that we can create a fairer and more just society when we take matters into our own hands.
I am, of course, talking about our Social Security (Scotland) Bill, which was passed at stage three by Parliament. From a key commitment to having a Scottish agency delivering devolved benefits by the end of the parliamentary term to the focus on the introduction of carer’s allowance supplement, best start grant and funeral expense assistance as the first devolved benefits, the Social Security Bill will mark a step change in our approach as a country to welfare and supporting everyone in our communities.
During the passage of the bill I had discussed with many organisations the issue of greater support for the cost of funerals. Funeral support is essential in supporting those who are most vulnerable at a truly vulnerable time in their lives. I was pleased that the bill included amendments which helped strengthen the positive outcomes on this important issue.
Some time ago I launched a consultation on a proposed Licensing of Funfairs (Scotland) Bill, which would be a member’s bill before the Scottish Parliament that delivered a distinct system of licensing that would be fairer for showpeople across Scotland. This consultation has now closed and the summary report is being considered by me. The responses are available on my website at www.richardlylemsp.org.
I have been updating you on the local issue in Whitehill which my office and I have been involved in, regarding the sewage works taking place near the Abbotsford Avenue area, and I have had ongoing discussions and communication with agencies such as Scottish Water and South Lanarkshire Council to better understand the position locally. I have now been informed that a planning application has been lodged Ref: P/18/0342 and I would encourage local people to share their opinion on this issue.
My constituency office remains open for consultation and anyone who requires assistance is welcome to drop in. I continue to have surgeries in Whitehill Neighbourhood Centre on the third Monday of the month at 5.30pm, along with Bothwell Community Centre at 4.30pm and Uddingston Community Centre at 6pm on the fourth Monday of the month. If none of these opportunities are convenient then anyone who requires any assistance can call 01698 479900 or email Richard.lyle.msp@ parliament.scot.
The Social Security Bill will mark a step change in our approach as a country to welfare