THE SNP have pointed to a raft of measures planned by the Irish government to tackle the cost of living crisis as a model for the UK.
The Irish Government is set to introduce mortgage tax breaks worth up to €1250 for homeowners and three energy credit payments worth €150 each.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has been challenged to back a similar package proposed by the SNP, who want the UK Government to introduce mortgage interest relief and a £400 energy bill rebate this winter, as well as taking action to reduce food prices in supermarkets.
In his Labour Party conference speech on Tuesday afternoon, the opposition leader is expected to announce major new housebuilding plans, which would see the creation of New Towns as were built in the 20th century near major English cities.
Starmer is also expected to announce that a Labour government would tear up greenbelt rules which he views as an impediment to economic growth by constraining the construction industry.
Stephen Flynn, the SNP’s Westminster leader said: “The Tories trashed the UK economy and they're rightly on their way out of government but people in Scotland want to see real change and real help with the cost of living – not more Tory cuts imposed by a timid, Tory-lite Labour Party.
"Sir Keir Starmer has the opportunity today to change tack and back the SNP's calls for a major cost of living support package at the autumn budget – including mortgage interest relief, a £400 energy bill rebate, and action to reduce food prices in supermarkets.
"These are the kind of bold measures needed to boost household incomes and reverse rising poverty – and governments around the world are already implementing them, showing what independent countries of Scotland's size can achieve.
"The SNP will continue to push the Tories and Labour Party to back urgent help to tackle the cost of living crisis.
“With every day Westminster fails to act, it is showing why Scotland needs independence to help families and boost the economy."
