A SCOTTISH Government housing minister has said the country is taking a “bolder and more focused” approach to tackling fuel poverty.

Kevin Stewart’s comments came after the SNP administration missed its target to eradicate the problem by 2016 and is looking to set new goals to reduce it.

A new consultation is being launched, with Mr Stewart insisting on a “bolder and more focused approach” to dealing with fuel poverty.

The new targets will be included in the government’s Warm Homes Bill, which will be brought forward in 2018. Almost a third of homes are affected by fuel poverty, campaigners say.