Austerity has been blamed for a shocking reversal in life expectancy trends across the UK, with experts warning the policy is set to continue under Labour.
For the first time since 1945, average life expectancy has stopped rising and is now falling in the poorest areas.
Leading Glasgow University academics Professor Gerry McCartney and Dr David Walsh have linked this dramatic shift directly to austerity introduced by the Tory government in 2012.
Their analysis reveals that the trend of steady health improvement was abruptly halted by spending cuts and welfare reforms.
The academics warn that austerity is “not going away” under Labour, as the UK Chancellor has chosen further welfare cuts rather than reforming taxes or closing loopholes for the wealthy.
They argue that this decision will continue to punish and stigmatise people who rely on the benefits system.
Separately, new research published in the British Medical Journal highlights the tragic mental health impact of welfare changes under the Conservatives.
Between 2010 and 2013, a million people were reassessed for benefits, resulting in an estimated 600 additional suicides and 290,000 more people suffering mental health problems.
SNP MSP Bob Doris said the human cost of austerity cannot be ignored.
He warned that life expectancy falling in disadvantaged communities proves that austerity is not just about money but about lives.
He accused Labour of making a deliberate political decision to target the most vulnerable in order to balance their books and meet self-imposed financial rules.
Analysis suggests these new cuts will leave 800,000 disabled people £4,500 worse off each year by the end of the decade.
Doris contrasted this with the Scottish Government’s approach under John Swinney, where eradicating child poverty has been made a top priority.
New statistics show that child poverty in Scotland has fallen to its lowest level in 30 years, with absolute poverty rates significantly reduced.
However, he warned that Westminster decisions are undermining this progress.
The Department for Work and Pensions’ own figures show Labour’s latest plans will push a further 250,000 people into poverty, including 50,000 children.
Doris stressed that the key powers needed to end poverty remain in Westminster’s hands.
He said Scotland is being forced to constantly battle against damaging policies from both Tory and Labour governments.
With Labour refusing to change course, Doris said independence is now more urgent than ever.
He argued that only with full powers can Scotland protect its people, reduce inequality, and build a fairer future.
