The SNP have welcomed statistics showing that over half of small businesses in Scotland are benefitting from the Scottish Government’s Small Business Bonus scheme.
SNP MSP Paul Wheelhouse asked the Scottish Government how many non-domestic premises were in receipt of rates relief. In a written answer, Finance Secretary John Swinney confirmed that 57% of non-domestic properties benefit from business rates relief. These include small businesses such as service industries, small manufacturing businesses, shops, restaurants and cafeterias, as well as the offices of charities, sports clubs, religious premises and many others.
The Scottish Government has pledged to maintain the Small Business Bonus scheme, and hopes to improve uptake even further.
Mr Wheelhouse, SNP MSP for South Scotland and member of the Finance Committee, said:
“Scotland’s small businesses play a vital role in our economy and are at the heart of our communities. So it is extremely encouraging to see that 57% of our small businesses are benefitting from reduced or zero business rates.
“This scheme is helping to create a fairer Scottish business rates system and giving a boost to small companies in the face of economic pressures.
“Only this week Energy Minister Fergus Ewing announced the small business loans scheme, giving £2.5million in funding to help companies install renewables technologies.
“These policies are making a huge difference to small businesses – but I would encourage even more to apply.
“Successful small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, create local jobs and are a fundamental source of entrepreneurship.
“That is why the SNP is committed to helping our small businesses withstand the current tough trading conditions and continue to make their crucial economic and employment contribution.”