6 Conclusions
81. We
welcome the progress that has been made in reducing child poverty
since 1997, which has been achieved as a result of unprecedented
levels of investment and a strong political will that now appears
to be shared by all. Poverty is often passed from generation to
generation. The reduction of child poverty therefore offers the
opportunity to break the cycle of deprivation. Nonetheless, the
levels of child poverty in Scotland are still high by international
standards and there is some evidence to suggest that progress
is slowing down. In order to reach the target of halving child
poverty by 2010, the Government will need to match, if not surpass
the level of resources and of commitment of the past decade.
82. We recommend
that the targeted nature of welfare support should be reviewed
to ensure that help is reaching those most in need. Throughout
this Report, we have emphasised the importance of a simplified
tax and benefits system.
83. Child poverty
can be tackled through many of the same strategies as poverty
in general. By maximising the incomes of parents (and parents-to-be),
children will no longer be born into poverty. Our previous Report
on Poverty in Scotland emphasised the need for
an integrated strategy, working co-operatively with the Scottish
Executive and local authorities. There is evidence to suggest
that this approach has led to a relatively greater reduction in
child poverty in Scotland, compared to the UK as a whole. However,
inconsistencies and administrative complexities remain in some
areas of the welfare system. These need to be removed if further
progress is to be made.
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