Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford has called for more support to tourism related businesses, all of whom have missed out on the busy summer trading period as a result of the pandemic and lockdown restrictions.
In his question to the Rural Economy Secretary on Wednesday (10 June), Mr Crawford pointed out that these businesses are experiencing three consecutive winters in lost trade, and need additional financial support to see them through to spring next year.
Mr Crawford’s call comes in response to the announcement by the Rural Economy Secretary of a provisional date of the 15 July for tourism businesses to return to work following lockdown restrictions first being implemented.
The provisional date is dependent on public health advice, progressing into phase 3 of the route map out of lockdown.
Commenting, Bruce Crawford said:
“Myself and Alyn Smith MP have spent a lot of time over the past few weeks engaging with local businesses to ensure we understand fully the challenges that they are facing right now.
“I welcome the announcement of the provisional recommencement date for our tourism sector of 15 July. However, many businesses have lost out on the period of trade that makes up the majority of their whole year already.
“Unfortunately, Scotland does not have the power to borrow the funds needed to support businesses in situations like this. I am pleased, therefore, that the Scottish Government is seeking to engage positively with the UK Treasury in order to secure the finances that businesses need to see themselves through to next spring. The UK Government must do what it can to support these businesses through this incredibly challenging time.”
