Commenting on the Scottish Parliament’s decision to pass the Budget, Liz Cameron, Director & Chief Executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“As the Scottish Budget was passed in Parliament today, it is promising to see useful and practical measures included to grow and enable the growth of Scottish business. Of particular importance, is the funding targeted towards advancing Scotland’s Skills & Youth Employment agenda, increasing investment in Infrastructure and providing support for the Oil & Gas industry. Of course, there is much more to be done and we will continue our efforts to strengthen Scottish business.

“Disappointingly, the Scottish Government has failed to deliver stability for businesses by its lack of commitment to freeze business rates until the next revaluation – this would have delivered much needed relief for many Scottish businesses. The Small Business Bonus Scheme, however, continues to assist many Scottish businesses which is commendable. Implementing SCC’s call to institute a freeze and implement a review of Business Rates will result in direct cost savings for more businesses, releasing much needed capital to increase investment and create jobs.

“Now, it is vital that our approach is business-led by targeting public funds in the right areas, using the right methods, enabling growth of Scottish businesses and creating wealth and jobs for Scotland.”