FM 'SKIPS HIS ROUND' IN BATTLE TO SAVE OUR PUBS

Swinney snubs rates relief summit aimed at rescuing ailing hospitality sector

- BY RICHARD ELIAS

THE First Minister has been accused of "calling last orders on Scotland's pubs" after refusing to agree to attend a summit planning to try to save the sector.

With the hospitality industry still reeling from the affects of Covid and the SNP's intransigence during lockdown, the economic crisis it faces is becoming dire.

It is estimated the one pub closes every week in Scotland and many other landlords believe they face no other option but to shut down.

One pub has revealed that its rates have risen almost 600% under the SNP's controversial rate valuation policies.

With this in mind, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives had proposed round-the-table talks with various industry leaders, including tycoon businessman, Sir Tom Hunter.

Yesterday, Russell Findlay, speaking at First Minister's Questions, asked John Swinney if he would join the discussions.

But the First Minister's glib response told its own story.