New body replaces the existing non-statutory commission

A lifelong disability campaigner has been announced as the new chair of Scotland’s Poverty and Inequality Commission.

Bill Scott, who is director of policy at Inclusion Scotland, has been involved in campaigns against the UK government’s welfare reform bill, the bedroom tax and for new rights for disabled people claiming devolved benefits.

The new body replaces the existing non-statutory commission, which will continue to operate until 30 June 2019. It will have a key role in advising ministers and reviewing progress in reducing poverty and inequality in Scotland.

Before formally taking up his role as chair of the commission on 1 July, Scott will work to support the appointment of members. The new roles will open for application in March.

Commenting on his new role, Scott said the key task over the next few months will be to bring together the right blend of knowledge, expertise and experience that can assist the government in achieving their ambition of reducing child poverty.

He added: “Over the years I’ve met many people living in poverty who could make a huge contribution to the commission’s thinking.

“I want to make sure that their voices are right at the heart of the commission’s work and dearly hope that they will come forward when we are recruiting.”

Communities secretary Aileen Campbell said: “As a government we have ambitious targets to reduce child poverty in Scotland. I am delighted that Bill Scott is our new commission chair. His appointment will help ensure strong scrutiny and independent advice is in place to support us on these targets as well as advising the government on tackling deep seated poverty and inequality.

“I know Bill shares my passion for building a fairer and more prosperous Scotland for all and I look forward to working with him and the new poverty and inequality commissioners to achieve that goal.”