Six in ten ‘would pay extra tax’ for services

Six out of ten Scots say they would be prepared to pay more in tax if the cash raised went on improving public services or tackling inequality.

Research by polling company Survation found 60 per cent said they would “personally be willing to pay more tax” – with only 15 per cent opposed.

The research, carried out for campaigning organisation 38 Degrees, was released a week before Finance Secretary Derek Mackay will reveal his Budget plans for next year to the Scottish Parliament.

A Scottish Government spokesman confirmed this was now in the “final stages of preparation”, with the draft Budget plans being discussed by Nicola Sturgeon’s cabinet.

Mr Mackay is expected to raise taxes for better-off Scots, using powers Holyrood has over income tax rates and bands.