Recommendation 4

The Committee is acutely aware of the higher than average cost of living in rural communities or the “rural premium”. It also recognises the complex and interconnected nature of contributory factors and that it is unrealistic to expect them to be resolved overnight. However, we agree that more needs to be done and invite the Scottish Government to respond to suggestions from the Scottish Poverty Alliance that targeted measures on energy costs, transport, housing, and service provision are required.