By Rory Murphy
Scottish Labour has accused the SNP and the Tories of “economic vandalism” today as the number of businesses in Scotland hits a nine year low.
New Business in Scotland statistics show that the estimated number of businesses in Scotland plummeted by 5.6 per cent between March 2022 and March 2023, falling to its lowest point since 2014.
This sharp fall was driven by a fall in the number of small businesses, which fell by 20,235 in the last year.
Scottish Labour Economy spokesperson Daniel Johnson said “Thousands of small businesses have gone to the wall as a result of the SNP and the Tories’ relentless economic vandalism.
“Scotland’s vast potential is being held back by our two incompetent governments, whose economic failure has cost jobs and destroyed livelihoods.
“Labour will put an end to this record of decline and support businesses, create jobs and deliver the fastest economic growth in the G7.”
Responding to new Scottish Government figures, which show that the number of businesses operating in Scotland has dropped by 5.6%, with the number of small businesses falling by a sharp 20,235, Scottish Liberal Democrat economy spokesperson Willie Rennie MSP said: “There’s no doubt that Brexit and the pandemic have had an effect on businesses but the SNP must also take responsibility for the anti-business rhetoric and the cumulative effect of their regulations and tax regime.
“We need a new approach that grows the skilled workforce, has smarter regulations, a long-term tax plan and direct support for businesses. Finally, we need an end to the damaging and distracting focus on independence.”
Pictures: High Street – the way we were and the way we are now.