Up to 12,000 Scots will miss out on a scheme giving householders £400 towards the cost of a new boiler this winter because the Scottish Government has refused to match the UK Government's promise of grants to replace worn-out models.

The UK government has announced details of an agreement with the plumbing industry south of the border to help refit 125,000 old G-rated boilers in England - but the Scottish Government has failed to commit to a similar programme here.

The Boiler Scrappage Scheme will benefit homeowners, the environment and many small plumbing businesses which depend on domestic work for their survival.

Mark said:

"There is no reason why Scotland should be excluded from this important scheme.

The UK Government is helping families though the winter by upgrading old, polluting boilers.

"The Scottish Government should work with the UK Government and the Scottish plumbing industry to make this happen. It is a devolved matter and their responsibility.

"Our homes account for almost a quarter of carbon emissions so tackling old, polluting boilers is a key issue for everyone.

"I have been contacted by representatives of the plumbing industry in Scotland, many of whom are furious that the Scottish Government is not taking action."

In his recent Pre-Budget Report, the Chancellor announced that a £400 incentive was to be offered to householders who wished to upgrade their central heating boiler. This was viewed as a welcome boost to the sector, which relies heavily on domestic work to stay afloat.

The Scottish Government has advised the Scottish plumbing industry that the scheme will not operate here.

For full details of the UK Government's scheme click here