The Conservative group on Moray Council have raised the query that government support being paid back by major retailers such as supermarkets could be given to local authorities to further support local business and help protect jobs.
At the full council meeting of Moray today Cllr Tim Eagle raised the question that the leader of the council should start quickly to engage with both the Scottish Government and the national body which represents local local authorities.
Commenting Cllr Tim Eagle (Buckie Ward) said;
“Recently a wide range of major retailers have offered to pay back business rate support given during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst there are complexities around how this could happen the sum could extend to near £2million in Moray alone.”
“Whilst it is great that businesses like supermarkets are in a position to do this many smaller businesses still face very difficult circumstances.”
“Following a Conservative motion to produce a local economic recovery plan in an effort to support businesses and jobs Moray council adopted a local plan which is now in action.”
“However if it was possible to keep locally any return of funds then that could go towards these continuing efforts to support local businesses and communities."
“There are many calls for funding but it is vital Moray has the money required to protect local people and their jobs. If this £2million is possible then I urge the leader of the council to act now before it is too late and the money is gone."
