CBI Scotland responds to draft Scottish Budget Statement

Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:

“With an economy that continues to falter, supporting ambitious public spending means building a competitive business environment that encourages investment.

“Lowering the poundage rate for some medium-sized firms unfairly caught by the large business supplement is a step in the right direction and builds on the important decision to protect the Uniform Business Rate.

“Increased long-term investment in low carbon infrastructure is welcome and business stands ready to play its role on the road to a net zero economy.

“With access to skills remaining a top business concern, increase in funding for colleges and universities is a vital measure that will help to equip young people with the skills they need to succeed in a world of work that’s rapidly changing.

“However, further divergence with the rest of the UK on income tax risks making it more difficult for businesses to attract the people and skills we need to grow the economy.

“It’s crucial that all parties now engage constructively in the Budget process in the weeks ahead to ensure that strengthening the economy is put at the forefront of political debate.”

Read the CBI Scotland Budget submission for our recommendations and priorities: https://www.cbi.org.uk/media/3980/cbi-scotland-budget-submission-2020-21.pdf