First Minister John Swinney has given further indications of his support for a so-called Amazon Tax “to reflect the realities of the world” and help bricks and mortar retailers.
Mr Swinney hinted at the new levy during an address to business leaders in which he gave his strongest acknowledgement yet of the need to encourage business growth to support public services.
He also confirmed plans to “empower” the regions of Scotland, while arguing again for Scotland to have the ability to choose re-entry to the EU and oversee its energy sector.
He did not refer specifically to an online tax, but gave a signal of support to the idea. “I want our taxation system to work in a way that better reflects the realities of a world where footfall is being replaced by the click of a mouse and shopfronts by delivery drivers,” he told the Prosper Forum in Edinburgh.
The Scottish Greens have repeatedly demanded an Amazon Tax and today called on MSPs from all parties to back the proposal to ensure large online retail giants pay more towards the communities and local economies that host them.
A Scottish Greens amendment will be made to a Scottish Government debate on “fair, progressive and sustainable taxation”.
The party’s economy spokesman Patrick Harvie said: “Scotland has some fantastic small businesses, which are of huge value to our communities, but too many of them are being forced to compete on an uneven playing field.
“Huge global online retailers have made enormous profits while our high streets have been hollowed out and local businesses pushed to the brink.”
However, retailers have not been universally supportive of the idea, with some voices in the sector arguing that most have an online presence and would see it as yet another cost being passed on to the customer.
See also
Public sector needs change of culture
Regions, energy and EU will drive growth
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