Dave Thompson MSP

Why should pensioners pay for Labour's bank bailout?

Dave Thompson MSP has launched a stinging attack on the Labour Party for their plans to scrap Attendance Allowance which would see benefits cut from the most vulnerable people in today's society. Mr Thompson says the move would hit the disabled in the Highlands and Islands hard at a very difficult time.

The UK Labour Government wants to cut Attendance Allowance - worth up to £70.35 a week for 145,000 elderly Scots - to fund aspects of social care in England which are already available in Scotland.

Commenting on the plans Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Mr Thompson said: "The mask has slipped to reveal the two faces of Labour. As he gets more and more desperate to cling on to power is there anything Gordon Brown won't do?

"How can this be the party which claims to represent the socially disadvantaged when they want to take money from the most vulnerable people in our society?

"They want to remove money which is absolutely crucial to disabled people here in the Highlands and Islands and across Scotland to help cover up their own financial mismanagement at Westminster.

"There are a high proportion of local people who depend on Attendance Allowance and similar benefits - to cut their income would be a disastrous move at any time, never mind during a recession.

"This plan is morally and socially unacceptable and leaves people relying on Disability Living Allowance in total limbo as it looks as though they are planning to cut that too.

"There is a clear contrast of two Governments when is comes to social care. While this SNP Scottish Government carries out a review of how we can deliver better social care in partnership with COSLA we have a Westminster wrecking ball cutting benefits to the people who need our help the most."