Chamber
Plenary, 25 Jan 2007
25 Jan 2007 · S2 · Plenary
Item of business
First Minister's Question Time
Senior Citizens (Poverty)
When fuel prices at source go down, the fuel and energy companies should reflect that in their prices—not only because of the positive impact it would have on pensioners but because of the positive impact it would have on hard-working families too.
I will reiterate something I said to the chamber before Christmas. The previous Minister for Communities met the energy companies about this issue. I will be happy to ensure that the new Minister for Communities supplies Mr Swinburne with information on the outcome of those meetings and on the actions that the companies have promised to undertake.
I am sure that discussions with the companies will continue, as will our efforts, in our own right and under our own responsibilities—yes—to put pressure on private companies to get their pricing systems right and to ensure through our public responsibilities that we provide the sorts of services for elderly people that not only ensure they are looked after well, but ensure that they are able to look after themselves well.
I will reiterate something I said to the chamber before Christmas. The previous Minister for Communities met the energy companies about this issue. I will be happy to ensure that the new Minister for Communities supplies Mr Swinburne with information on the outcome of those meetings and on the actions that the companies have promised to undertake.
I am sure that discussions with the companies will continue, as will our efforts, in our own right and under our own responsibilities—yes—to put pressure on private companies to get their pricing systems right and to ensure through our public responsibilities that we provide the sorts of services for elderly people that not only ensure they are looked after well, but ensure that they are able to look after themselves well.
In the same item of business
3. John Swinburne (Central Scotland) (SSCUP):
SSCUP
To ask the First Minister what further action the Scottish Executive will take to address the essential needs of senior citizens who are currently living bel...
The First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell):
Lab
As John Swinburne recognises, we have taken significant steps to address pensioner poverty, lifting 120,000 pensioners from relative poverty since 1997. The ...
John Swinburne:
SSCUP
Does the First Minister agree that fuel poverty among the elderly is a national disgrace? Fuel bills have doubled over the past three years. Since June 2006,...
The First Minister:
Lab
When fuel prices at source go down, the fuel and energy companies should reflect that in their prices—not only because of the positive impact it would have o...
John Swinburne:
SSCUP
My final question is on a positive note. Will the First Minister consider fast-tracking a bill to means test prisoners? Senior citizens are currently means t...
The First Minister:
Lab
John Swinburne perhaps speaks for many of us in the sentiments behind his question.I believe in the principle of ensuring that we can pursue those who are re...