Chamber and committees

Response to letter sent to Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on 8 July 2021

Letter from Justin Tomlinson MP, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, 9 August 2021

Neil Gray MSP
Convener, Social Justice and Social Security Committee

[email protected]

Dear Neil,

Thank you for your letter to the Secretary of State dated 8 July 2021. I am 
responding as the lead Minister on devolution issues relating to the Scotland Act 
2016.

Congratulations on your appointment to the position of Convener of the Social 
Justice and Social Security Committee.

I recognise the importance of good working relationships between our Governments, 
particularly as many people will be the recipients of benefits from both UK 
Government and Scottish Government. As you may be aware I attend the Joint 
Ministerial Working Group on Welfare, which provides the main forum for discussion 
on issues linked to the implementation of that Act and progress on the transfer of 
social security powers.

Priorities for delivery of social security powers devolved under the Scotland Act 2016 
are a matter for the Scottish Government. DWP continues to work closely with 
Scottish Government to consider the impacts of respective priorities and ensure the 
safe and secure transfer of powers. This includes providing support and continuing 
to deliver benefits on behalf of the Scottish Government whilst they build delivery 
capability.

Kind regards,

JUSTIN TOMLINSON MP
MINISTER FOR DISABLED PEOPLE, HEALTH AND WORK