IRVINE MSP Ruth Maguire has welcomed a new consultation aimed at ending child poverty.

Ahead of next year’s Child Poverty Bill, the Scottish Government has launched a consultation asking for comments on the proposal to introduce four statutory income targets.

These would seek to drastically reduce child poverty by 2030 as well as on how existing work can be strengthened.

And Ms Maguire is “delighted” with the Scottish Government’s approach which she believes will build on the work -which has already undertaken to tackle poverty and inequality in Scotland.

The new bill will form part of the overall approach to tackling poverty and inequality in Scotland.

Speaking this week, Ms Maguire, the MSP for Cunninghame South, said: “The launch of this consultation shows that the Scottish Government is taking vital action to tackle poverty and inequality across
Scotland.

“I am delighted to see the Scottish Government taking this active approach to end the blight of child poverty.

“Tackling deep-seated inequalities is the job of all society, so we need everyone across local authorities, business, the third sector, and those who experience poverty to work together.”

She added: “The Child Poverty Bill consultation will allow further evidence and ideas to emerge, helping to build on efforts already underway.

“The efforts such as free school meals, a commitment to the
Living Wage of £8.25/hour, the Scottish Attainment Challenge and duties to tackle inequalities of educational outcome due to socio-economic disadvantage.

Ms Maguire added: “The Scottish Government sees ending child poverty as a priority.

“And this Bill consultation shows that the SNP in Government will work hard to end the cycle of poverty in Scotland once and for all.”