Will The Higher Benefits Bill Bust The Scottish Governments Financial Plans

13th January 2024

The Scottish Fiscal Commission chairman Professor Graeme Roy and other officials gave evidence to Holyrood's Social Justice Committee on Thursday. They referred to their recent forecast report produced around the Scottish Budget.

It examined how the Government's social security spending is higher than the amount it receives from Westminster via block grant adjustments. In the 2024/25 financial year, this spending will be around £1.1 billion higher, with this figure forecast to rise to £1.5 billion in 2028/29.

Prof Roy explained to the committee the gap is the result of Scottish ministers' choices to bring in new benefits like the Scottish Child Payment and the different approach to ADP.

Even the higher Scottish Taxes may not be enough to cover he benefits deficit.