A GLASGOW MP has hit out at the UK Government over claims their policies are causing people to face destitution over the winter months.

David Linden, MP for Glasgow East has called on the UK Government to do more to support rough sleepers and non-UK nationals who are at risk of deportation over the winter months.

In a debate held at Westminster Hall last week, Mr Linden said he was “very concerned” about ongoing plans to deport non-UK nationals who are sleeping rough.

He said: “I think that’s a very inhumane and backwards policy. I think these actions undermine the UK Government’s approach commitment to end rough sleeping alongside undermining the vital work of devolved administrations to help those most vulnerable throughout the pandemic.

Mr Linden highlighted the work that the Scottish Government has done to support rough sleepers and those with no recourse to public funds.

Throughout this period, a £50m Ending Homlessness Together fund has been established by the Scottish Government as well as a commitment to phasing out night shelters and replacing them with rehousing welcome centres.

Mr Linden added: “As the SNP spokesperson for Housing, Communities and Local Government I am acutely aware of how important this debate is, particularly during the pandemic and as we find ourselves in the cold winter months.

“I have been incredibly proud of all of the work that the Scottish Government has been doing to tackle homelessness during the pandemic.

“The SNP has ensured that Scotland has some of the strongest homelessness rights in the world – which means that anyone who is experiencing or is at risk of homelessness is entitled to receive help from their local authority, including accommodation.

“This COVID-19 pandemic has proven to us all just how tragic this Tory Government has been at handling a crisis – with the possibility of a no deal Brexit in the horizon, I dread to think how bad it could get for the poorest in our society.

“It is more obvious than ever that Scotland, as an independent country, can best support people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping.”

A UK Government spokeswoman said: A Government spokesperson said:

“The government has acted decisively to ensure that everyone is supported through this crisis, including those who have no recourse to public funds.

“We have introduced a range of measures to ensure people can stay safe, many of which are available for those with no recourse to public funds, and have provided councils with £6.4 billion to support communities, including their work to support rough sleepers.

“Deportation action is reserved for foreign national offenders with serious and persistent criminality as well as for reasons of national security.”