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<p>COVID-19 is the biggest threat the UK has faced in decades. Key workers, including
NHS staff and social care workers, have already demonstrated remarkable commitment
to keeping the public safe in the continuing fight against the virus. The Government
hugely values and appreciates these vital contributions to the COVID 19 response.</p><p>
</p><p>Under the longstanding rules any payments made in connection with an employment
are chargeable to income tax and National Insurance Contributions. They also count
as income for the purposes of calculating entitlement to certain benefits. This was
the case when the Welsh Government announced similar payments earlier this year.</p><p>
</p><p>We’ve provided over £8.2billion of extra funding for the Scottish Government
this year to support people, businesses and public services.</p><p>If it is their
intention for NHS staff and social care workers in Scotland to benefit by at least
£500, the Scottish Government has the powers and funding to gross up the payments.</p><p>
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