Question reference: S6W-14517
- Asked by: Sarah Boyack, MSP for Lothian, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 27 January 2023
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Current status: Answered by Michael Matheson on 7 February 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what discussions it has had with the UK Government regarding the impact in Scotland of the changes to the Energy Bills Discount Scheme due to take effect in March 2023.
Answer
The significant cut by the UK Government in support for businesses with their energy costs beyond March is very concerning, particularly for the more vulnerable sectors.
Scottish ministers wrote to the UK Government at the end of last year to express our disappointment at the lack of opportunity we were given to engage in the review of the Energy Bills Relief Scheme, and to stress that any continued support should be aimed at those businesses and sectors who need it the most.
We will continue to work with stakeholders to analyse the impact of this reduced level in support upon businesses and to raise our concerns with the UK Government at every opportunity.