Scotland could trial giving every citizen a minimum income
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Scotland could become the first part of the UK to pilot a basic income for every citizen, it was claimed today.
Councils in Fife and Glasgow are investigating trial schemes this year.
Glasgow councillor Matt Kerr said: “Like a lot of people, I was interested in the idea but never completely convinced.”
But he “kept coming back to the basic income” in his role as the authority's poverty-buster. Supporters say the move would simplify the benefits system.
But critics fear it would see millionaires given handouts just like the poor and needy – and widen wealth gaps.
Mr Kerr said the measure was “about solidarity”.
He told The Guardian: “It says that everyone is valued and the government will support you. It changes the relationship between the individual and the state.”
Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell insisted last year that he can “win the argument” on universal basic income.
Without revealing the amount he would like to see handed out, he said: “I think there are opportunities there that it could simplify the welfare system but in addition it could tackle the issues around poverty.”