MINISTERS have been warned that any move to water down legislation on how buildings are heated would be “environmental vandalism.”

Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie made the remarks ahead of a ministerial statement on the Heat in Buildings Bill, which would require homeowners to switch from polluting heating systems like gas boilers to greener alternatives.

But SNP Energy Secretary Gillian Martin announced a redrafting to target fuel poverty last month, sparking Green fears it may be diluted.

“To do so would be an act of environmental vandalism and a blow for household budgets, our economy and our environment,” said Mr Harvie.

“We are already way behind where we need to be in terms of tackling fuel poverty and our transition away from fossil fuels.”

Acting SNP minister for climate action Dr Alasdair Allan said they had listened to “legitimate concerns” in redrafting, adding: “Instead of placing prohibitions on every home owner, we will establish targets for government to reach.

“Rather than looking at action through the lens of decarbonising alone, we will also commit to doing everything in our power to reduce costs for people.”