FOOD BANKS IN SCOTLAND

That this House acknowledges the concerning increase in the number of people relying on food banks in Scotland; notes that there has been a 26 per cent increase in the number of people receiving emergency food supplies in the past two years; recognises that at least 55,038 food supplies went to children, highlighting the continued problem of child poverty in this country; emphasises that the growing number of food bank referrals have been linked to the failure of benefits to cover the cost of essentials; commends the work that the Trussell Trust charity does for all those in need of emergency supplies across the UK; and calls on the Government to take action to tackle the main drivers of food insecurity and prevent any further escalation.