FIGURES which show that 1,490 properties in Inverclyde have received £8m worth of non-domestic rates relief this year have been welcomed by Inverclyde's MSP.

Stuart McMillan, SNP MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde, says the statistics show the value that the Scottish Government places on supporting small business and organisations in Inverclyde.

Non-domestic rates relief lowers bills for eligible organisations, through initiatives like the small business bonus scheme – which offers 100 per cent non-domestic rates relief for eligible businesses.

Mr McMillan said: “I welcome the news that 1,490 properties in Inverclyde are receiving £8m worth of rates relief, thanks to SNP policies.  

 “At a time when businesses are struggling, the Scottish Government’s wide range of non-domestic rates relief policies will be a lifeline for many small businesses and organisations here in Inverclyde. 

 “The Scottish Government’s rates relief policies are the most generous anywhere in the UK – especially the small business bonus, which offers 100 per cent non-domestic rates relief for a wider range of eligible businesses than is the case elsewhere in the UK. 

 “This substantial level of rates relief across our area shows the value that the SNP places on supporting local businesses and organisations here in Inverclyde.”