SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT MUST END FUEL POVERTY

12.00.00am GMT Fri 21st Nov 2008

Jim Hume MSP, MSP for the South of Scotland and Environment Spokesperson, told Nicola Sturgeon yesterday that building regulations needed to be tightened up to see more new homes becoming energy efficient.

The MSP made the call during a Ministerial statement on fuel poverty yesterday (20th November).

Jim Hume said:

“Prevention is better than cure in energy use. The SNP said in its manifesto that it would tighten building regulations on insulation in new builds, but that was not mentioned in yesterday’s announcement. In an answer to an earlier parliamentary question, Stewart Stevenson said that the Government intended "to consult on any proposed changes in 2009, with a view to introducing revisions in 2010”.

“A requirement that all new build properties have to be energy efficient, will cut energy costs for households as well as reduce out overall energy consumption which is good for the environment.

The MSP continued:

“The Scottish Government will not meet its target to end fuel poverty by 2016, simply by further consultations.”

ENDS