FSB in Scotland: Slim pickings for Scottish smaller firms in budget

Press Releases 27 Oct 2021

FSB in Scotland reacts to the Chancellor's Autumn Budget.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has revealed UK Government tax and spending plans in today’s budget. 

Andrew McRae, FSB’s Scotland policy chair, said: “There were slim pickings for hard-pressed debt-laden Scottish small businesses in today’s budget. 

“The Chancellor could have reduced payroll taxes or taken the edge off non-domestic energy bills. However, Scotland’s local and independent firms struggling under the weight of covid debt and spiralling utility costs won’t have heard much from the Chancellor that will help them balance the books.  

“Plans to reform alcohol taxes and freeze fuel duty will be welcomed by some in business. And moves to deliver a poundage freeze and provide hospitality firms in England with enhanced rates relief next year gives Holyrood some policy options. 

“However many firms in Scotland, after enduring repeated public health shutdowns, will wonder how this Budget addresses the problems they’re facing today.”