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THE SNP are pledging to block the hated sanctions regime when Holyrood takes control of more welfare-to-work powers, the Record can reveal today.

Equalities Secretary Angela Constance said she would refuse to “assist” the UK Department for Work and Pensions if they attempt to penalise claimants.

Her promise follows a report which warned 13,000 Scots face being sanctioned each year. The figure was revealed last month in research into devolved benefit powers heading to Holyrood.

At the time, the Scottish Government declined to comment directly on the proposal.

But in an interview with the Record, Constance said: “While we can’t stop the UK Government putting conditions on the work-related benefits, we’re not going to be giving them any information or responding to inquiries if we think that might lead to a sanction.

(Image: REUTERS/Jeff Overs)

“The reality is we’ll have two systems - we’re trying to design a new system. It is easy for people to get confused. But what I can say, and what the minister for training and employability can say, is our skills programmes are voluntary and we’re not going to deal with an inquiry if it would add to the risk of a sanction.”

She said the SNP have regularly condemned the UK sanctions system.

Constance added: “We won’t be assisting. I think that’s crystal clear.”

Yesterday was the half-way point of the Scottish Government’s consultation on the future shape of social security.

With six weeks to go, hundreds of people have been canvassed for views. Events have been held in around half of Scotland’s 32 councils.

A report on its outcome will be published next year and employment support powers officially kick in from April. A full Scottish employability programme will follow in 2018 after a “transitional” year.

In total, Holyrood will gain power over about 15 per cent of the overall benefit system. Jobseekers allowance and other work-related benefits remain reserved.

Constance made her position clear as she gave a personal commitment to use what powers she has to tackle poverty.

The Almond Valley MSP said her own background gave her the drive to “make a difference”.

Constance spent her early years in Blackburn, West Lothian, which is among the most deprived communities in Scotland, according to figures in a recent government study.

“The figures that came out last week are a stark reminder that to overcome poverty and inequality, which have been a mark of society for generations, will take a considerable heft to overcome,” she said.

“The question is, how do we do that? There are specific measures but the bottom line is about the economy, the focus is on the economy, education and inclusive growth.

“I want to be making a difference. And given my background, my childhood and work, I’m firmly rooted in the practicalities of life.

“Our powers are limited but I want to use them for maximum benefit.”

Citizens Advice Scotland welcomed Constance’s pledge to block sanctions.

In a statement, the advice group said: “When someone has no money whatsoever, it can also make it more difficult for them to look for work, as it is harder to pay for transport, phone credit and broadband to contact employers. So we certainly welcome any efforts to address these problems and help those who are struggling.”

A DWP spokesman said: “Sanctions are an important part of our benefits system and it is right that they are in place for those few who do not fulfil their commitment to find work.

“The Scottish Government now has significant new welfare powers, and we will continue to work together to ensure that devolution works for the people of Scotland and the UK.”