Business rates valuation warning

STRUGGLING Scots business owners do not need the added burden of an introduction of new non-domestic rates valuations, warns local MSP Finlay Carson.

He has joined the chorus of growing numbers within the business sector – both locally and nationally – who are seriously opposed to the move being proposed by the SNP Government.

The Galloway and West Dumfries MSP fears any change could harm businesses already struggling to keep their heads above water.

And he insists any failure to listen by SNP Ministers could result in wholesale job losses as many companies buckle under the latest untold financial burden being placed on them.

Mr Carson wants a halt to the introduction of new non-domestic rates valuations and said: “I have been inundated with messages from hard-working business owners who are already struggling to stay afloat under the current economic conditions.

“They are now being told they face eye-watering increases to their rates bills of 100 per cent, 200 per cent, 300 per cent and even more.

“Make no mistake, this will kill many pubs, restaurants accommodation providers and hotels, especially in Dumfries and Galloway where businesses already rely heavily on this trade.”

He stressed firms have ‘already been hammered’ by the SNP’s failure to pass on business rates relief and Labour’s crippling national insurance increase, adding: “For the sake of Scotland’s economy, and people’s jobs, the anti-business SNP Government needs to go back to the drawing board.”