STUC Welcome Scottish Poverty Report

The STUC today welcomed the publication of ‘Poverty in Scotland 2007’ by the Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland which highlights how poverty impacts on people and places across Scotland.

Speaking after the launch of the report STUC Assistant Secretary Dave Moxham said “Among other things, this report highlights in-work poverty amongst the Scottish workforce caused by low pay and part-time work. Much has been achieved by the Scottish Executive and UK Government to tackle and we welcome the First Minister’s commitment to put the fight against poverty in Scotland at the top of the political agenda.

“This report highlights the fact that much of the low paid employment which causes poverty is in the public sector and we call on public sector employers to act now to combat low pay”

Commenting on the announcement on expanding the provision of school meals STUC Assistant Secretary Mary Senior added: "It is good to see the First Minister coming round to the STUC's long held position on free nutritional school meals for all. The provision of a decent school meal at lunch time has so many positive benefits of improving health, behaviour and learning ability, and encouraging social interaction".

ENDS

For further information contact Dave Moxham 0141 337 8100