For immediate release

BEGINS

Local MSP, Clare Haughey, has hailed new figures that show 30,820 residents in South Lanarkshire have benefitted from the Scottish Government’s Council Tax Reduction scheme. 

A total of almost 460,000 people across Scotland are in receipt of the discount.

The scheme applies to those living alone, students, some people living with a disability, and some people on low incomes.

The Scottish Council tax reduction scheme applies equally to the entire country – unlike in England, where council tax discount schemes differ in each local authority.  Scots already pay the lowest average Council Tax in the UK – with the average Band D property paying £730 a year less than in England. 

Commenting, Clare Haughey said: 

“It’s great news that over 30,000 people in South Lanarkshire are paying less council tax than they would be without this scheme. 

“Council tax in Scotland is already lower on average than in England and Wales – and this discount puts more money into the pockets of those who need it most.

“Unlike in England, this scheme applies equally across the whole country – ensuring everyone receives the same treatment.

“The Scottish Government is fully focused on helping people with the cost of living, and it absolutely right that this discount helps ensure Scotland has the best cost of living support package available anywhere on these islands.” 

ENDS