DISABLED people will not have to go through “unnecessary” medical assessments to claim benefits under Scotland’s new social security system, the minister in charge has said.
MSPs are expected to grant final approval to the Scottish Government’s Social Security Bill when it comes before Holyrood on Wednesday.
The legislation paves the way for the creation of a new benefits regime north of the Border, which will run alongside the UK welfare state.
Green MSP Alison Johnstone put forward an amendment so the new system would ensure “much hated” assessments are only carried out when there is not enough pre-existing medical evidence to support an applicant’s claim. This has now received backing from the Scottish Government.
Social Security Minister Jeane Freeman said: “I welcome this amendment from Alison Johnstone and can confirm it is one the Scottish Government wholeheartedly support.”
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