This section highlights issues on which the Chamber is representing the business community.
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Funding the Public Sector
Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce has been actively involved in commenting over recent times on how the public and private sector relate. This has looked at the proportion of our GDP which each is delivering, how public sector procurement can be opened up to SME's and other ways in which our large and important public sector can help grow the economy in partnership with private enterprise. A key issue for the success of business is how well and quickly we can improve the infrastructure which is so vital to economic success.
Business Rates
Edinburgh Chamber spearheaded a campaign in June 2005 to 'level the playing field' by getting Business Rates in Scotland set to the same level as England. Scottish businesses are currently paying over 8% more than English rates.
City Parking Strategy
Edinburgh Chamber has been fighting for business interests to be recognised in the new Parking Strategy for Edinburgh, currently under review by the City Council. The introduction of business permits, visiting tradesperson's permits and long waiting times at bays all appear likely after Chamber lobbying on behalf of members businesses. Read our response to the Parking Strategy here.
Trams
The Chamber's Transport Group is engaged in a thorough review of the proposals (currently before Parliament) to build two tramlines in Edinburgh.
Safer Streets
A number of people have expressed concerns about how safe are our streets at night. Is on street drunkenness and anti-social behaviour a problem?
Public Sector Growth
Over half of Scotland's economy is now in the public sector. We spend nearly ten per cent more than England (pro rata) on public services, and public sector employment keeps growing. We all appreciate the good work done by emergency services, educationalists and the health services, but are we getting best value for money?
Cut Red Tape
The government's own figures show the cost of new legislation alone since 1998 to be over £15 billion pounds. The Chamber is campaigning for relief for businesses.
Plastic Bag Tax
The Scottish Parliament is considering a proposal for a law to make retailers charge 10p for a plastic carrier bag.
