CBI backs Tory bid to scrap retail tax

BUSINESS leaders have backed a last-ditch Tory bid to scrap a tax on Scotland’s biggest retailers.

Conservative MSP Margaret Mitchell has lodged a motion to annul the levy on superstores selling both alcohol and tobacco at Wednesday’s meeting of the local government committee at Holyrood.

The Scottish Retail Consortium yesterday welcomed the attempt to overturn the tax, which is due to come into force on 1 April.

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CBI Scotland reiterated its opposition to the move, saying it had “deep misgivings” about the levy.

Scottish Government ministers argue that the supplement, which is designed to bring in almost £100 million over three years, will have a minimal impact on the profits of the big supermarkets.

But critics have warned that it could act as a threat to further store openings and job creation north of the Border.

The motion is almost certain to be defeated at Wednesday’s meeting.