CBI URGED TO TAKE CONSTRUCTIVE APPROACH TO TAX POWERS

CBI URGED TO TAKE CONSTRUCTIVE APPROACH TO TAX POWERS

SNP MSP Linda Fabiani, who last week spoke in a Scottish Parliament debate which saw the Parliament back discussions on fiscal responsibility for Holyrood has urged CBI Scotland to engage constructively in the debate.

Ms Fabiani was responding to comments from CBI Scotland that instead of recognising the potential for fiscal responsibility to deliver strong economic growth in Scotland focus on old myths and scare stories.

Ms Fabiani said:

“There is a major debate taking place not just among politicians but the business community, academics, economists, the voluntary sector and trade unionists about how to improve Scotland’s economy, protect public services and support employment through greater financial responsibility in Scotland – enabling us to deliver a growth strategy for the Scottish economy.

“Despite Iain McMillan’s membership of Calman, I am sure that the CBI – like members of Calman’s own expert financial group – recognise the flaws and damaging impact the Calman Commission proposals on taxation would have on Scotland, particularly now that it has been overtaken by events. There is now a consensus – supported by a Scottish Parliament vote – to look beyond those powers for a system that really can bring economic benefit to Scotland.

“There can be no doubt that in delivering financial responsibility, the business community have a key opportunity to enhance Scotland’s competitiveness. With leading business figures such as Jim McColl and Martin Gilbert recognising this opportunity – as well as academic experts such as Professors Andrew Hughes Hallett and Drew Scott – and highly respected business people coming together to put forward a vision for Scotland's future, I hope that CBI Scotland along with others will now join them and discuss how real financial responsibility can take Scotland’s economy forward for their members, rather than remain stuck in the past.”