SNP Claims UK Budget Will Raise Energy Bills for 1 Million Scots

The Scottish National Party claims the UK Labour Government's Budget will cause energy bills to rise for approximately one million people in Scotland. Citing analysis from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre, the party states that over 800,000 Scots face higher gas bills because standing charges were replaced with higher unit prices, while 142,000 heating oil users face costs driven by Middle East conflicts.

SNP Westminster Leader Dave Doogan described the situation as a national scandal, alleging that Scotland's energy resources are being used to subsidize warmer regions of the UK. The party warns that bills may rise by 27% in January, potentially exceeding previous Labour promises by £1,000.

In response, Chancellor John Healey announced a £100 energy bill payment for households in council tax bands A to D, which the Scottish Government has agreed to pass on. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero defended the removal of gas standing charges, stating the move makes bills fairer and gives consumers greater control.