Local Income Tax on course

Commenting on the Legislative Programme announced by the First Minister in the Scottish Parliament today (Wednesday) SNP MSP Joe FitzPatrick, a member of the Finance Committee, welcomed the introduction of a bill to abolish the unfair Council Tax.

Mr FitzPatrick said:

"This will be a very popular move by a Scottish Government which is reflecting the mood of the people of Scotland – particularly at a time of rising household bills.



"The SNP Government has already delivered a Council Tax freeze so that more families can keep more of their own money at such a time of growing financial burdens.

"Council Tax went up 60% under Labour and it is no longer tenable to defend it as a fair tax. So it is no wonder a majority of people support the introduction of a system based on ability to pay and Labour's leadership contenders are all over the place with no clear alternative.

"The SNP has that alternative – a system on ability to pay. The SNP's proposals mean a £280 million tax cut for the people of Scotland and will clearly have major benefits for families concerned about financial hardship. Under the SNP's proposals the overwhelming majority will see their bills cut.

"Perhaps that's why Labour's defence of the Council Tax is crumbling as not only do a majority of Scots voters support the Local Income Tax, but a majority of Labour voters also do."