Volunteers wanted to take part in tax reform commission

24 September 2015

Aberdeen residents have been invited to take part in an open discussion that will help shape the future of local taxation in Scotland.

The public are being consulted on possible alternatives to the current system of Council Tax, which affects nearly all of the 2.4million households in the country.

The Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) worked together to establish the Commission on Local Tax Reform. The group involves councillors and MSPs from across the political spectrum as well as representatives from the Scottish business community and civic society.

The remit of the Commission is to explore and understand a range of alternatives to the present system, which some believe is unfair. The Council Tax was created in 1993 to replace the Community Charge, also known as the poll tax.

People across Scotland are now being invited to get involved in the debate by taking part in a series of public discussion sessions before the Commission reports back in advance of next year's Scottish Parliament election. Those taking part will have the opportunity to meet and discuss the issues with Marco Biagi MSP, Minister for Local Government and Community Empowerment.

The Aberdeen event will take place at Marischal College on Monday, October 5, from 12.30pm. It will last for up to two hours. For further information, contact chiefexecutive@aberdeencity.gov.uk or info@localtaxcommission.scot or call 0131 474 9332.