Hyslop Calls on Opposition MSPs to Rule out Threat to Uniform Business Rates
SNP Only Party Stand up For West Lothian Businesses
Local Linlithgow Constituency MSP, Fiona Hyslop is calling on Lothian based opposition MSPs to oppose proposals that introduce risks and uncertainties for businesses – after 27 business organisations signed a letter raising concerns over an opposition amendment to the Non-Domestic Rates (Scotland) Bill.
The SNP was the only party which opposed the amendment to the Bill – which would mean that rates would no longer be set nationally and business rates reliefs, including the Small Business Bonus and rates relief for nurseries – would automatically end. If the Small Business Bonus scheme was abolished, some smaller businesses in West Lothian could face a business rate hike of more than £7000.
Fiona commented,
“I am calling opposition MSPs to reverse amendment 9 to the Non-Domestic Rates (Scotland) Bill that seeks to end nationwide-rates reliefs and introduce local rates multipliers and which Tory, Labour and Green MSPs voted for at stage two just before Christmas.
“The move to scrap over £308 million of relief – which is strongly opposed by the SNP – could impact more than 100,000 businesses across Scotland, and cost smaller businesses in West Lothian £7,000 in business rates. This would be a real blow to our local communities and could risk the delivery of vital local services, the work of charities and third-sector organisations.
“I’ve been personally contacted by businesses in West Lothian raising their concerns over the impact of these proposed changes and opposition MSPs must now heed their warnings and reverse this disastrous proposal at Stage 3 in order to support our economy and make West Lothian the best place for business to invest.”
ENDS