Sturgeon to consider tourist tax as part of budget

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard has pushed the First Minister to back tourist tax plans.

During First Minister’s Questions yesterday, Mr Leonard asked Nicola Sturgeon why she did not back a proposed £2-a-night tourist tax in Edinburgh, which is projected to raise around £11 million a year.

The proposal has been put forward by Edinburgh City Council and its SNP leader Adam Mcvey.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Mr Mcvey has a very strong view on the introduction of a tourist tax. That view is shared by many in different parts of the country.

“It’s not currently Scottish Government policy to have a tourist tax, but of course we will continue to have that discussion.

“We will continue to consider these matters as we approach our budget this year.”