Election hopeful backs 'Tesco tax'

THE tax on supermarkets is a good idea, according to a Green politician.

The SNP Government wants to raise 30 million through a levy on large retail premises.

While the move has been opposed by opposition parties at Holyrood, Gavin Corbett, who is to stand for next year's council elections for the Green Party, said: "It is actually a good idea. It is not enough, of course, but if it helps level the playing field between the likes of Asda and Tesco on the one hand, and my local shops on the other, it is fine by me.

"And if the revenue raised helps to protect threatened public services from budget cuts, then what's not to like?

"In my part of Edinburgh, over the last 15 years, my neighbourhood has lost a butcher, fishmonger, baker, post office and now our chemist. Coincidentally, Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury's have opened massive stores within a mile. Local shops cannot compete.

"Here in the Shandon area, our local food group has just launched our own Shop Local Shandon campaign. We've been talking to our local shops about extending the range of produce they offer and, in turn, giving residents new information to explore their local shops, as well as the various food box schemes that deliver to our area. So there are positive things that communities and individuals can do."