Families still fighting cost of living

From my casework, my mailbox and all the conversations I have with people across our constituency, I know that the cost of living crisis remains the single-biggest challenge facing families.

- BY PAISLEY AND RENFREWSHIRE SOUTH MP JOHANNA BAXTER

Years of economic instability under the Tories, compounded by the impacts of Liz Truss’ disastrous mini-budget, Brexit and the pandemic, placed intense pressure on working households.

But for those already living in poverty, especially children, the impact has been devastating.

On the watch of the Conservative party, in their 14 years in government in Westminster, and the Scottish National Party, in their 18 years in government in Scotland, child poverty in Scotland has surged.

Last winter alone, more than 59,000 emergency food parcels were distributed, and nearly one in every three of those - over 19,000 emergency food parcels - went to children.

That is a national shame and it is the legacy this Labour government is determined to clear up.

That is why this month's Budget, delivered by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves, matters so much.

It is a thoroughly Labour budget - ensuring those with the least receive the most help and those with the broadest shoulders are contributing more.

It reflects our values of responsible redistribution, tackling rising living costs, and building real opportunity for people in every community.