Scottish Government Delivering Lower Bills for Families in Almond Valley

Scottish Government Delivering Lower Bills for Families in Almond Valley

New figures show lower taxes and household costs in Scotland compared to the rest of the UK

People across Almond Valley are continuing to benefit from Scottish Government decisions that are helping to keep the cost of living down – even as energy prices rise and Labour’s new tax on jobs comes into force across the UK.  Local MSP Angela Constance has welcomed new data that highlights how families in West Lothian are better off thanks to choices made by the Scottish Government – including a fairer tax system, lower council tax, and cheaper water bills.

Most people in Scotland now pay less income tax than they would in England, thanks to the Scottish Government’s progressive approach. On top of this, Scots benefit from a range of universal services not available elsewhere in the UK – including free university tuition, free prescriptions, free eye tests, and free bus travel for under-22s and over-60s.  The latest figures also show council tax in Scotland remains more affordable, with households in Band D properties paying an average of £737 less a year than those in England. Meanwhile, Scottish Water – which remains in public ownership – is keeping water charges around £113 a year lower.

Angela Constance MSP said that the contrast between the Scottish Government’s record and Labour’s broken promises is becoming increasingly clear.

Commenting, Angela Constance MSP said:

“Labour promised to bring energy bills down – but they’ve gone up by nearly £300 since they took office. Their track record simply doesn’t match their rhetoric. In contrast, the Scottish Government continues to take real action to support people through the cost-of-living crisis. Whether it’s through lower income tax, fairer council tax or cheaper water bills – families here in West Lothian are seeing the difference these choices make.

“We also continue to provide world-class public services that people in England can only dream of – like free university tuition and free bus travel for young people and older residents.  When it comes to standing up for people in Almond Valley and protecting household budgets, the Scottish Government is delivering where others fall short.”

ENDS

Notes for editors:

Income Tax in Scotland: Most Scottish taxpayers now pay less than those in the rest of the UK:

https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-income-tax-2025-2026-factsheet/pages/2

Council Tax:

Average Band D in Scotland: £1,543

Average Band D in England: £2,280

Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/council-tax-levels-set-by-local-authorities-in-england-2025-to-2026

Water Charges: On average, £113 cheaper annually in Scotland than in England:

https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/24937701.scotlands-water-bills-113-cheaper-england-wales/

• Latest News