Highlands And Islands Labour Ms Rhoda Grant Is Seeking Answers From The UK Government On Financial Support For Those Off Gas-grid

20th September 2022

On the 8th September, the UK Government announced financial measures to help consumers with rising energy costs. This included a discretionary fund for those who are not on standard gas/electricity contracts equivalent to the support available for those on gas-grid.

Following that announcement, and a period of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II, Mrs Grant has written to the UK Government seeking further details.

In her letter to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Jacob Rees-Mogg MP, the MSP says: "It is easy to think that every household in the UK is being affected the same in this cost of living crisis but in reality, that is not the case. In the Highlands and Islands, we already pay more for food, transport and energy because of our geography - this is well documented. This “Rural Tax" has long been recognised by residents but paired with the cost of living crisis, I am fearful that it will have long term detrimental consequences for the region including fuelling depopulation.”

The MSP then goes onto ask when the fund will be open to the public, what supporting documents will be required when making an application and lastly, how quickly can households expect payment once an application is made.

Rhoda Grant MSP says: “Let me be clear, this announcement is welcome. Up until this announcement, the majority of residents in the Highlands and Islands, many of whom are already in fuel poverty, have had to buy fuel in bulk without any acknowledgement of the additional cost they face. I am happy to see that this has now been rectified but I am keen to ensure that no one falls through the cracks which is why I am seeking further details.

“I am hoping that this will be an easy process because I am fearful of the short and long term effects of the “Highland Tax” paired with the cost of living crisis. Families will be driven further into poverty and potentially many homes in the Highlands and Islands will be cold this winter which is not acceptable.”