THE Scottish government was challenged yesterday to commit to channelling new Westminister government cash into keeping people warm this winter.

After introducing a means test for winter-fuel payments which will cost more than 10 million pensioners up to £300 this winter, the Labour government increased funding for its Household Support Fund in England, resulting in an extra £41 million coming to Scotland through Barnett consequentials.

As the Scottish National Party government puts the finishing touches on its draft Budget, Scottish Labour social justice spokesman Paul O’Kane has demanded to know where the new money has gone.