SNP candidates across the Highlands and Islands have issued a joint call for urgent action to address rising energy and fuel costs impacting homes and businesses.
The statement is backed by Jenni Minto, Maree Todd, Emma Roddick, Laura Mitchell, Alasdair Allan, Robert Leslie, Hannah Mary Goodlad and Eilidh Munro.
The candidates say people across the region are facing growing financial pressure, particularly in rural communities where heating and transport costs are already higher than average.
They warn that homes, businesses, fishing and agriculture are all under strain, with rising costs adding to existing pressures.
The group argues that current UK Government support does not go far enough and is calling for longer term measures to protect households.
Among the proposals are ongoing support for heating bills, particularly for those using oil and LPG, alongside stronger regulation of the sector.
They are also urging ministers to scrap a planned fuel duty increase and remove VAT from fuel duty while costs remain high.
The statement says:
“The war in Iran has spurred a global energy crisis that is unparalleled in recent years, which may continue to cause serious disruption for some time to come.
“In Scotland, this crisis is especially damaging to people living and working in rural areas.
“In the face of this crisis, a lack of clear and robust action by the UK Government is alarming.
“As SNP candidates for constituencies in the Highlands and Islands region, we are witnessing acute pressure on homes, businesses, fishing and agriculture.
“People in our region already pay far more to stay warm, work, and get where they need to be.
“A spike in costs after the conflict threatens to tip many households over the edge.
“While support announced by the UK Government for those who heat their homes with oil or LPG was a start, the SNP Scottish Government more than doubled this and have already opened the fund here for applications of up to £300.
“However, this support is targeted out of necessity, and with heating oil bills having more than doubled in many areas, we need confirmation from the UK Government of longer term support.
“We also need the introduction of proper regulation of this energy sector, including a cap on the cost of heating oil and LPG in the same way that electricity and gas consumers are protected.
“Ultimately, powers over energy must be fully devolved to Scotland.
“The UK Government must also urgently commit to mitigate sharply rising costs for petrol and diesel.
“We would urge UK Ministers to scrap the planned fuel duty increase and remove VAT from fuel duty for as long as the energy crisis continues.
“Failing to act will have a long term and serious impact on people in the Highlands and elsewhere.
“We sincerely hope that the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran holds and leads to lasting peace.
“The UK Government must prepare for the eventuality that it does not and set out decisive actions it would take to protect homes and livelihoods.
“If elected, we will fight for just and timely support.”
The issue of energy and fuel costs is expected to remain central in the run up to the Scottish Parliament election.
For many in the Highlands and Islands, the concern is immediate, with rising bills already affecting daily life and business viability.
