By Scott Wright
PUBLIC Finance Minister Kate Forbes has reinforced the Scottish Government’s commitment to maintaining the Uniform Business Rate.
Ms Forbes said the government echoed concerns raised by business groups that devolving control of rates to local authorities would create risk and uncertainty for rate payers and councils. The move is proposed in an amendment to the Non-Domestic Rates (Scotland) Bill, which was supported by the Conservative, Labour and Green parties at stage two of the bill’s progress.
Responding to a letter from 27 business groups, Ms Forbes said ministers share the view that the amendment “introduces complexity, risks and potential unpredictability into the rates system."
She added: "I can reassure you all that we will not be supporting any amendments that continue to threaten the Uniform Business Rate”.
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