Rates of decline

The alarm bells are ringing all over Scotland as the massive commercial rates increases are starting to bite, with predicted payoffs and company closures announced daily.

The big problem is that the SNP are not listening to the cries for help from company owners both small and large. They have their heads buried deep in the sand in the matter, being preoccupied in using the Brexit negotiations to contrive another independence referendum. There can be absolutely no justification for applying rates increases on this hideous scale and unless the SNP wake up to the situation and conduct an urgent review of commercial rates, companies will be forced to continue to reduce staff and assess closure options. DENNIS FORBES GRATTAN

Mugiemoss Road Bucksburn, Aberdeen