Clydebank’s MP has questioned the timing of the UK government’s announcement on a package of measures aimed at tackling the cost-of-living crisis - and said it was “shameful” it took ministers so long to act.

Martin Docherty-Hughes was responding to Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s new £15 billion support package to support the most vulnerable households across Scotland, including a one-off £650 payment.

Mr Docherty-Hughes said it was no accident that the announcement came just a day after the publication of the Sue Gray report on 'Partygate' in Downing Street - and said Mr Sunak's measures didn't go far enough to support West Dunbartonshire residents.

Mr Docherty-Hughes said: “I've spoken repeatedly in parliament about the worsening impact of the UK's cost-of-living crisis in West Dunbartonshire. Far too many of my constituents have been forced to endure cold homes and turn to foodbanks due to the disregard this Westminster government has shown our communities.

"The SNP has been pressuring the UK government for months to act to ease the financial burden facing households. It's shameful that it's taken so long for the Chancellor to announce these measures, and many will question the timing to coincide with the release of the damning Sue Gray report into Partygate.

"Whilst the additional financial support coming to the hardest-hit households is welcome, these one-off payments are a sticking plaster at best when we need long-term solutions to this poverty crisis.”

The new support will be funded by a windfall tax on oil and gas giants with Ofgem this week announcing a further energy price rise in October this year.

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “Global issues are causing real pressures in the cost of living for UK families. We understand how tough it is at the moment for many households, which is why the Chancellor has announced a further £15 billion support package.

“A total of £400 per household towards fuel bills will help protect families from rising energy costs. Cash payments of £650 for low-income households on means-tested benefits will target support for the most vulnerable in our society at this difficult time. This comes on top of our existing £22bn support package.

“Some of these measures will be paid for by a temporary levy on oil and gas companies - one which incentivises investment in the UK’s energy security.”