Increased rates relief positive, but bills still set to rise

Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, said: “This increased relief is positive news and will help soften the blow for many licensed hospitality businesses.

“UKHospitality Scotland has been clear that urgent support was needed for the sector, and it’s clear the Scottish Government has acted as a result of our engagement.

“This is a good example of how the Scottish Parliament can make a positive difference to businesses, when political parties work together.

“However, the sheer scale of rateable value increases have driven rate bill hikes to such an extent that business rates bills will still increase for the vast majority. This is particularly true for businesses in the higher property rate, who have not been included in relief.

“The need for this urgent support is yet another demonstration that the business rates system is completely broken and in need of serious reform. Fixing the system has to be a priority for the next Scottish Government.”