SCOTLAND’S poorest families will be hundreds of pounds worse off after changes to benefits and tax credits take effect, according to research published yesterday.

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) Scotland has calculated that the poorest 20 per cent of households will lose an average of £520 each year.

The research came as Tory Scottish Secretary David Mundell brazenly attempted to wash his hands of the government’s tax credit cuts. He said the Scottish government would be able to top up tax credits and child benefits under new devolution plans.