We've no plans for new taxes now, insists John Swinney

JOHN Swinney has told MSPs he has no immediate plans to introduce new taxes.

The finance secretary set out the position during an economy debate at the Scottish Parliament, in response to a question from Tory MSP Gavin Brown. The minister was outlining the Scottish Government's plans for economic recovery.

Mr 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.

"But at this stage I can foresee no circumstances of bringing that forward."

Mr Brown, the Scottish Conservatives' economy spokesman, 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."