Views Sought On Welfare Powers Use

MSPs are seeking views on how proposed new powers over welfare should be used to design a benefits system in Scotland.

Holyrood's Welfare Reform Committee has launched an inquiry into the aspects of social security recommended for devolution in the post-referendum Smith Commission.

These include attendance allowance, disability living allowance, personal independence payments, carer's allowance, discretionary housing payments, the work programme and work choice.

The Scotland Bill, designed to implement the recommendations, is currently making its way through Westminster, with both Labour and the SNP calling on the UK Government to go further. Committee convener Michael McMahon said members were particularly interested in hearing the views of people who have taken part in the work programme and work choice.

He said: This approach allows us to focus on the implementation of the devolved social security schemes, ensuring that the process behind the new systems is fit for purpose for claimants and service providers.

It is important that our inquiry helps to build a political consensus on how Scotland's new system of social security should be designed.

It is important that the introduction of these new powers receives detailed scrutiny and our inquiry provides an opportunity for people to have their say on how the new schemes should be designed.''

Submissions can be made to the committee until August 28.