Siobhian Brown said that the Labour leader’s New Year promise to cut social security spending would be “devastating” for families in Ayr, Prestwick, and Troon.
Anas Sarwar announced that Labour would cut social security payments, including the Scottish Child Payment, if they were in power in Scotland.
This mirrors Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision to retain the two-child benefit cap.
Siobhian Brown said: “Anas Sarwar has kicked off 2025 just as he left 2024, ditching values which were once synonymous with Labour and going back on his word.
“The Labour Party in Scotland is now the party of austerity cuts, and if Mr Sarwar wants to cut vital support like the Scottish Child Payment, he should come out and say it.
“This SNP Government, however, has put forward a budget that provides hope to the people of my constituency, ensuring those who need support the most get it.”
Anas Sarwar commented: “The SNP wants to pretend that one single benefit or payment has the answer.
“The uncomfortable fact is that we can’t end poverty with welfare alone.
“To end poverty, we need to get our economy moving, our public services working and create more decent, well-paid jobs.
“The harsh reality is that there is a multidisciplinary approach required if we are to end child poverty.”