Isles MSP to push for lower taxes on fuel in remote areas

Isles MSP Tavish Scott will put forward a parliamentary motion as leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats on Thursday pushing for variable tax rates on fuel for remote parts of the country in an effort to cut prices.

He will lead a debate in the Scottish Parliament calling on the Scottish and UK governments to work with the European Commission to investigate how such a scheme could work.

Ahead of the discussion, he said: “In Shetland people depend on their cars because of limited public transport.

“Fuel tax is constantly rising, we have a monopoly of supply driving up local prices and oil prices will assuredly rise again – it’s just a question of when.

“I want MSPs in the Scottish Parliament to stand up for people in remote and rural areas who are struggling with high fuel prices. This approach, if agreed by Parliament means that the Scottish Government can work with the UK Government and the European Commission.

“These governments should agree to allow variable rates of duty for island and rural areas. This will allow a fairer price at the pumps, bringing down the cost of living for individuals, families and businesses at this difficult economic time.”