Speaking at First Minister’s Questions today, Ruth Davidson said the SNP’s bid to make Scotland the highest-taxed part of the UK would not only hit hardworking families, but damage the economy too.
The Scottish Conservative leader highlighted a number of experts who’ve spoken of the dangers of having a high-tax economy.
Later today, the SNP will attempt to significantly increase council tax rates, a move the Scottish Conservatives will resist.
And as well as seeking to increase council tax, the SNP has already doubled business rates for large companies, a move roundly criticised by industry.
Instead, Ruth argued, we should be ensuring a competitive taxation regime which boosts economic growth and protects people’s pay packets.
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said:
“We’re moving to a new phase in this parliament where it’s going to be economic growth which determines how much money the Scottish Government has to spend.
“But if we tax too much, we are only going to deter the tax receipts and growth we need.
“The people of Scotland are watching what goes on in Holyrood, and all they see is Labour and the SNP challenging each other on how high they can go.
“That damages Scotland’s reputation as a place to do business.
“The SNP’s plan is higher council tax, higher business rates, higher income tax – and of course a second independence referendum which is damaging confidence.
“Families and businesses across Scotland work hard and pay their fair share.
“Telling Scots they have to pay higher taxes than anywhere else in the UK hits them unfairly in the pocket and deters business.”