Scottish Catholic Parliamentary Office comments on Budget 2026

Anthony Horan of the Scottish Catholic Parliamentary Office said the 2026 Budget provides helpful assistance for energy bills and social housing investment. Writing for the Archdiocese of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, Horan noted these measures address concerns raised in a previous pre-Budget statement.

Horan stated that short-term relief must be accompanied by sustained action to address poverty and ensure people can afford essential costs and secure housing. He expressed concern that the Budget may offer minor adjustments rather than the long-term commitments required to support vulnerable populations.

The Scottish Catholic Parliamentary Office identified several priorities for the government, including welfare support, employment routes, care services, and predictable funding for community organizations. Horan said the effectiveness of the Budget depends on whether support reaches households with high heating costs and whether devolved governments have sufficient resources for vital services.

The statement also urged the UK Government to restore international aid to 0.7% of gross national income. Horan called for adequately funded safe and legal routes for refugees, including resettlement and family reunion, as well as predictable international climate finance and protections for low-income households during the transition to cleaner energy.