We won't hand more benefits powers to Holyrood

Labour chief Ashworth says Social Security Scotland is as much of a shambles as SNP

- CHRIS MCCALL

LABOUR'S work and pensions spokesman has vowed not to give the Scottish Parliament any more powers over benefits.

Jonathan Ashworth has been tasked by Keir Starmer with improving the UK's social security system if his party wins power next year.

Most benefits remain reserved to Westminster but some have been devolved to Holyrood over the last decade.

In an interview with the Record, Ashworth, the Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, claimed Social Security Scotland was in "as much chaos as the SNP".

It was revealed this week the number of complaints received by the devolved benefits agency has risen tenfold in the last year.

Ashworth said his background meant he was "passionate about delivering a social security system that worked. "I grew up in a working-class family in north Manchester and I remember what it was like when my dad was jobless," he said.

"I remember going to the dole office with him as a child and the haunted looks in those queuing up.

"I know a government offering a platform to people is absolutely vital. It's about transforming life chances."