Brown: SNP must commit 100% to no new taxes

Scottish Conservatives are calling on the SNP Government to explicitly and comprehensively rule out any new taxes in Scotland.

Gavin Brown MSP, Scottish Conservative Economy Spokesperson, said:

"These are tough economic times and it is vital we don't hit hard-working Scots with any new taxes. I am concerned that when given the chance to rule out any new taxes, the Finance Secretary ensured he gave himself plenty of wriggle room.

"Scottish Conservatives are clear – we do not wish to use the existing or future Scottish Parliament tax powers to increase income tax in this Parliament or impose any new taxes.

"What we need from the Finance Secretary is a 100% commitment to do the same. For the sake of taxpayers and businesses everywhere, he must rule out any new taxes."

Speaking in the Chamber this afternoon, in response to a question from Gavin Brown MSP, John Swinney said:

"I have no proposals to bring forward any new taxes in Scotland. As Mr Brown is aware, the Government will publish its spending proposals and its wider budget in the autumn. If there is any change to the position I've expressed to Mr Brown, it will be contained in that document."

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