The Fuel Poverty (Target, Definition and Strategy) (Scotland) Bill sets a target of no more than 5% of households living in fuel poverty by 2040. It also proposes a new definition of fuel poverty and requires the Scottish Government to publish a fuel poverty strategy, as well as a progress report every five years.

The committee has issued a call for views on the main provisions within the legislation and draft strategy.

Convener of the local government and communities committee, James Dornan MSP, said: “Having a warm home is a basic right and no-one should have to choose between heating and eating. The intention behind this Bill is therefore welcome.

“However, it is the role of the committee to look at these proposals in detail to determine if the target is achievable and if the measures set out will make a real difference.

“We want to hear from a wide range of organisations, stakeholders and people from across Scotland to generate discussion on the key proposals set out in the Bill and most importantly how we tackle fuel poverty.”

The committee welcomes views on any relevant matters raised in the Bill and has also prepared the following questions which might assist in structuring responses: