14/09/2009

Scottish Borders Council urged to agree third Council tax freeze

SNP MSP Christine Grahame has urged Scottish Borders Council to back a third council tax freeze ahead of an announcement by the Finance Secretary on next year’s financial settlement for local authorities across Scotland. Ms Grahame said:

“In the current fragile economic environment it is vital that we ease the burden on households across the Borders and am urging Scottish Borders Council to support a third year council tax freeze.

“The Scottish Government is making efficiencies across all departments following the decision by the UK Government to axe £500m a year from the Scottish budget. This will mean some tough choices ahead, but the SNP Government is committed to easing the burden on Borderers.

“We made a commitment to secure a council tax freeze over three years and I am confident the majority of Scottish Councils will support this, recognising now is not the time to increase the tax burden on families and hardworking individuals.

“Regardless of which London based party is in power in Westminster the Scottish budget is likely to face greater cuts in future. The only way to avoid that will be to progress our country towards independence and divert the wealth of our nation towards where it is needed most. That will mean avoiding spending on renewing Trident and ensuring the wealth generated in Scotland, remains in Scotland.”

SNP It’s time.....