MSPs refuse changes to the UK benefits system.

MSPs have formally protested against changes to the UK benefits system.

SNP and Labour members of the Scottish Parliament took the unprecedented step of voting against a Westminster “consent” motion.

It is important to be aware that whilst Holyrood cannot prevent Westminster changing the welfare benefits system. The UK government needs Holyrood to allow it to change the law so its reforms would fit the Scottish system.

• The UK government explained that the Welfare Reform Bill would save billions of pounds by replacing Disability Living Allowance with a personal independence payment and replacing a range of other benefits with a single universal credit.

The changes will have a knock-on effect for devolved services such as social care and devolved entitlements such as free school meals.

MSPs voted to turn down Westminster’s consent request in favour of making the necessary legal changes themselves.

It is the first time Holyrood has refused Westminster legislative consent.

SNP and Labour MSPs voted 100 to 18 to refuse to back the necessary legislative consent motion on parts of the UK government’s Welfare Reform Bill where the Scottish Parliament has legislative competence.