SNP MSP for Glasgow Shettleston, John Mason, has called for a ‘decent’ living wage to be rolled out across the private sector.

Questioning the Scottish Government during general questions in Holyrood, the Glasgow MSP welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment to pay a living wage and the recent 5p rise, which takes the rate to £7.20 per hour.

The Shettleston MSP told Parliament that an increase in the minimum wage, or the implementation of a living wage in the private sector, would lift many people out of poverty and out of the benefits trap.

Speaking from the Scottish Parliament, SNP MSP for the East End, John Mason said:

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to paying a living wage of £7.20 an hour.

“However, I would go one step further and ensure this be paid in the private sector too.

“I believe that moving to a decent, living wage would lift many people out of poverty and out of the benefits trap that so many people find themselves in.

“Both the previous Labour and now coalition government have done absolutely nothing to pay a minimum wage that truly reflects today’s cost of living. I would like the Scottish Government to seriously consider moves that would ensure the private sector is obliged to pay a decent living wage if the relevant powers are to be transferred to Holyrood”.