MSPs are calling for views on controversial proposals to reform business rates in Scotland following the Barclay review’s recommendations.
Holyrood’s Local Government and Communities Committee is set to explore the impact of the Bill which aims to reform non-domestic, or business, rates in Scotland. The Bill is the first of its kind to propose wide scale changes to the current system.
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The committee is asking for views on the various proposals, including independent schools no longer being able to claim charitable relief. The Bill also aims to address what the Scottish Government describes as a ‘known tax avoidance tactic’ involving unoccupied or under-used properties.
Other proposals in the Bill include: tax relief reforms for new or improved properties intended to encourage development and investment in business properties; revaluation of properties subject to business rates being carried out every three years rather than five; clarification as to when sports clubs should be allowed rates relief and an alteration to enable councils to initiate debt recovery proceedings for unpaid rates sooner.
Committee Convener James Dornan MSP said: “Non-domestic rates are the second highest revenue raising tax in Scotland and these reforms could affect a great number of people.
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“We are keen to hear the views of potentially affected organisations and members of the public about the proposed changes to the system, and whether the Government has addressed the issues raised in the Barclay review.
“We also want to know if people think anything else should be included in this Bill or if more radical reform of the system is needed.”
The call for written views will close on 30 May 2019.
