QUEEN’S SPEECH SHOWS A TIRED GOVERNMENT AFRAID TO TAKE THE REAL DECISIONS

Angus MP Mike weir has expressed disappointment with the Queen’s Speech saying that it fails to grasp the issues affecting the people of Angus and Scotland.

“The government intend to raise the pension age rather than tackle the real problems of pensions and introduce a Citizen’s Pension which would raise all pensioners out of poverty and provide a firm base for private savings.

“A Citizen’s Pension is affordable at a rate equal to the basic state pension plus pension credit.  It is not the money that is the problem, it is the lack of political will by this government.”

Mr Weir also challenged the government to make real and substantial changes to the Child Support Agency.

“The present system has totally failed.  We need substantial reform not tinkering about the edges.  We need a system that is fair, transparent and treats everyone the same.  We need speed and clarity in assessment and enforcement.”

Mr Weir did welcome the introduction of a Climate Change Bill but warned that it must seriously tackle the problem. 

“We have yet to see the details of the bill but it must be bold and prepared to take real action to tackle the most serious problem facing us all.

“Tackling climate change is not only about taxation but provides a real chance to tackle the problems of rural areas.  It should be about carrots as well as sticks.”