Third sector groups join search for Council Tax replacement

Alternatives to Council Tax are to be discussed at a public meeting hosted by leading third sector organisations in Scotland.

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and Edinburgh Voluntary Organistions' Council (Evoc) have joined the Commission on Local Tax Reform in inviting those with an interest to share their views at a discussion forum on Thursday 27 August at 1.30pm in Edinburgh’s Hayweight House.

The commission has representatives from the majority of Scotland’s political parties at council and national level and from people in the business and civic society sectors.

It was set up by the Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to explore and understand a range of alternatives to the present Council Tax system.

The two co-chairs of the commission will both be in attendance at the meeting.

Marco Biagi MSP, who is also the minister for local government and community empowerment, said: "The Commission on Local Tax Reform will consider progressive, workable and fair systems, taking into account domestic and international evidence on tax powers and wealth distribution, the autonomy and accountability of local government, and the impact on individuals who pay the tax.”

Cllr David O'Neill, who is also president of COSLA, added: "Across Scotland people are looking for the debate to break new ground, and that’s why I am determined that this commission will be listening to people and organisations from all parts of the country, and setting out what it would take to give our local communities a real say about what matters most to them, and the best way to pay for it.”

A spokesperson for the commission said: “We want to hear what you think might – and might not – be a fairer way of raising the £2 billion presently collected from Council Tax in Scotland.”

To take part, you can register online or contact the commission by email [email protected] or by telephone on 0131 474 9332.