SCOTTISH Labour leader Johann Lamont has dismissed the SNP's commitment to universal benefits as a "myth".

She hit out as MSPs passed a symbolic Holyrood motion saying "only independence" could protect a range of popular giveaways, including free university tuition and free prescriptions for all.

Ms Lamont – who has questioned the fairness and affordability of providing benefits for the better off when the Scottish Government budget is shrinking – said SNP ministers had ended the policy of installing free central heating for all pensioners and cut access to legal aid.

She added: "The idea the SNP Government is providing universal benefits is a myth and it is time SNP ministers started being honest with people."