We need a revaluation

public that, while the union views the option as a very last resort, farmers do have legal rights to shoot a dog worrying livestock. There have been some cases where much-loved family pets have been shot because they have not been properly controlled by their owners.

NFU Scotland does not wish to see more instances and reiterates its plea that dog owners comply with responsible access rights.

Sir, - It is likely that in a few weeks’ time, the controversy over business rates will have calmed down (February 22).

There was much anguish among companies and organisations that work hard to ensure their operations are financially viable.

We should not forget though that the new levels were determined by independent valuation assessors.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay has acted, somewhat belatedly, to ease the strain.

Imagine the controversy that would have arisen if domestic properties had been given a long overdue revaluation.

This is not likely to happen because nearly all the political parties are frightened of the backlash.

The values that were determined more than 25 years ago, when the council tax was introduced, are now well out of date. To avoid any political difficulty, the Scottish Government changed the levies for E to H properties, which means many residents will face an average increase of about £500 a year on their bills, as well as allowing the local authorities to raise the tax by up to 3% for all residents.

It has put off the day of reckoning. If we are to keep the council tax there needs to be revaluations if there is to be any semblance of fairness.

It has put off the day of reckoning. If we are to keep the council tax there needs to be revaluations if there is to be any semblance of fairness