UK Government benefit changes will significantly increase child poverty, following years of decline, according to the Scottish Government.
An additional 50,000 children will be impoverished by 2020 compared with 2011, the Government said in its annual report for child poverty in Scotland.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that only independence will allow the Scottish Government to make the substantial difference needed to reduce child poverty.
Labour welfare spokeswoman Jackie Baillie said the figures demonstrate the Scottish Government’s lack of ambition.
The Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), a charity led by Labour peer Ruth Lister, said the SNP administration’s policies should be more ambitious.
Ms Sturgeon said the Scottish Government is working with local authorities, the NHS and others with £272 million in the Early Years Change Fund and using around £125m to help support young people into work.
