Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
First Report - Cost of living: impact on rural communities in Scotland
Scottish Affairs Committee
HC 153
Published 24 January 2024
Conclusions (3)
1
Conclusion
Accepted
Para 14
The term “rural communities” encompasses a broad gradation of populations across Scotland and this results in a varied experience for people living in rural areas. Successful cost of living interventions need to account for and be tailored towards that variable experience.
Government Response Summary
The government notes the conclusion, recognising the varied experiences of rural communities and the importance of tailored interventions. It highlights its existing engagement with rural groups and cites the £2 bus fare policy as an example of a successful intervention that benefits rural areas.
4
Conclusion
Accepted
One way to help reduce energy costs in the long-term is to improve the energy efficiency of homes. The challenge of retrofitting and insulating homes, in terms of cost, time and practicality, are particularly acute for rural areas. Rural Scottish households are therefore facing more barriers to accessing home energy …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the challenges of improving energy efficiency in rural Scottish homes, noting that housing policy is devolved to the Scottish Government. However, it highlights that its UK-wide Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme already includes specific uplifts and provisions for rural, low-income, off-gas grid homes in Scotland.
8
Conclusion
Accepted
Para 60
Although there is no agreed definition of food insecurity, it is clear that the difficulties people experience in providing sufficient food for their families are the result of a range of issues affecting household budgets—there is no lack of available food, but there is often insufficient income to pay for …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the conclusion by describing its existing and upcoming welfare spending increases, tax cuts, and cost-of-living payments designed to support household incomes. It also outlines its internationally recognised definition of food security.