Call for greater clarity over B&B funding

Greater clarity is needed when it comes to financial assistance for B&B and guest house owners in Scotland.

This is according to Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston, who has criticised the Scottish Governments approach to supporting this sector during the pandemic, this week.

Mr Halcro Johnston’s spoke out after questioning Scottish Government minister Fergus Ewing in the Scottish Parliament earlier today.

He said: “Many businesses, notably B&Bs and guest houses who pay council tax rather than business rates, are suffering from issues with cash flow and have, to date, received very little in the way of support from the Scottish Government.

“These businesses make a very significant contribution to the economy of the Highlands and Islands and should be receiving support equivalent to the Strategic Framework Business Fund to help them keep afloat.

“It was therefore very disappointing that, while he could say when he expected local councils to start rolling out the schemes, Fergus Ewing was unable to tell me when businesses could expect to see grant funding reach their bank accounts.

“Cash flow is a major concern for any business, and we will all be the poorer if we lose these businesses due to a failure to get the support to them in a timely manner.

“We need to see greater clarity and more urgency from SNP ministers, with a focus on protecting the jobs and livelihoods of those who are currently struggling.”