SNP MEMBERS yesterday backed calls for a “flagship policy” giving all adults in an independent Scotland a “citizen’s income” to lift people out of poverty and create a better welfare system.
Members of the Cumbernauld branch submitted a motion underlining that Finland will introduce the policy as a pilot from next year and called for the work there to be monitored.
“Conference deplores the UK Government’s assault on our welfare state, which is causing hardship and suffering to some of the most-vulnerable people in society,” it said.
“Conference believes that a basic or universal income can potentially provide a foundation to eradicate poverty, make work pay and ensure all our citizens can live in dignity.”
It called for the impact of the basic income in Finland, and other countries, to examined and “to consider successful models when designing a welfare system for an independent Scotland”.
A citizen’s income gives every person a basic income regardless of whether they are in or out of work, but they cannot claim any additional social security benefits.
The suggested levels vary, but would be around £51.85 a week for young people up to 24 years old, £65.45 for those aged between 25 to 64, and £132.69 for over-65s.
Supporters say it would save on administration costs involved in running the existing complex welfare system, stop benefit fraud and ensure everyone receives the money they are entitled to.
Inverclyde SNP MP Ronnie Cowan urged the audience not to vote against the move because critics suggested it would be “difficult”. He told delegates the current welfare system was so flawed a completely different system should be designed.
“It can be the flagship policy for a socially just independent country.”
Earlier this year, Caroline Lucas, the Green Party’s MP, called for David Cameron to consider the policy.
Supporters say the citizen’s income would also help those who work part-time, carers and those who want to change careers.
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