North East MSP's concern over £1 million increase in Dundee Business Rates
North East Scotland Liberal Democrat MSP, Alison McInnes, has supported local businesses who are outraged at the Scottish Government for offering no respite to businesses whose rates have risen substantially.
Mrs McInnes commented, "Despite the Liberal Democrats fighting for a fairer system for Scottish businesses the Government have refused to introduce transitional relief, the same relief that is on offer throughout England.
"The increase follows a countrywide revaluation programme and with no hope of a relief scheme, Dundee businesses have found themselves being taxed an extra £1 million per year. This has been a hammer blow for many local businesses.
"Within Dundee we have seen the Premier Travel Inn at Broughty Ferry, for example, hit by an increase of over 50% as well as numerous hotels and garages having to budget for huge rates rises. This is sure to put Scottish businesses at a disadvantage.
"The SNP refused to consult, they refused to listen and now they must squarely take the blame for the extra burden they have placed on the shoulders of local businesses."