Today’s developments on the Welfare Bill have been nothing short of a shambles. I share the deep frustration – and frankly, anger – of many disabled people across Scotland at how this has unfolded.

To witness Labour swing from utterly ignoring disabled people to suddenly scrambling to change the Bill mere minutes before a crucial vote is a total joke, and absolutely no way to run a country. It shows a shocking disregard for disabled people – who are often fighting just to be able to live our lives in peace – and carers.

Disabled people and their families are already more likely to live in poverty, more likely to suffer the worst of the cost-of-living crisis, and more likely to experience higher energy, transport, and household bills.

By giving this legislation their backing, even with those last-minute amendments, Scottish Labour is only plunging disabled people into more uncertainty after months of being left to worry. Delaying any real clarity on Personal Independence Payments (PIP) until the end of 2026 is unacceptable. People need certainty, security, and peace of mind when it comes to their support, not more endless waiting and anxiety.

Labour MPs have really shown their true colours here. Any cut to PIP would be absolutely devastating for disabled people. These aren’t just payments; they’re a lifeline that allows people to function, to participate in their communities, and yes, to maintain employment.

That’s why the SNP has made a rock-solid pledge to protect these essential payments right here in Scotland. We will not, under any circumstances, stand by and allow some of the most marginalised people in our communities to bear the brunt of Labour’s reckless decisions.

The uncertainty that disabled people face right now is also facing the Scottish Government, as Scotland waits, as usual, to hear what exactly Labour’s latest flip-flopping means for our budget here.

But here in the Highlands and Islands, and across Scotland, even with the limited powers we have, we can and do step in to protect disabled people.

Imagine, though, what we could truly achieve with the full powers of independence. We could build a truly fair, truly compassionate welfare system that puts people first, ensuring no one is left in limbo or facing such needless hardship – not have to watch Westminster from afar and hope for the least-worst outcome.

A welfare system should be there to support everyone when they need it, and the SNP is absolutely committed to delivering that for Scotland.