Let public vote on it, says top Nat

SCOTS should be given the chance to vote on whether councils introduce the controversial workplace parking levy, according to a senior Nationalist MSP.

Alex Neil has claimed that a series of local referendums should be held – and has pledged to amend government legislation to ensure that votes on the issue go ahead.

The Scottish Government has confirmed it will devolve powers to local authorities, meaning they can introduce the levy. But there are widespread concerns that businesses will pass on the cost to employees.

Critics say the move will be yet another tax on already hard-pressed families in Scotland – with the Conservatives, Labour and the Liberal Democrats all uniting against the levy. Finance Secretary Derek Mackay has claimed he was forced to commit to the tax in order to pass his Budget with the Greens.

However, even Nationalist MSPs have raised concerns.

And now Mr Neil has insisted members of the public should be asked in a referendum before councils implement any changes.

He said: ‘One way to ensure that there is true local democracy in action is to conduct a local poll to test whether people in the area would approve this tax in principle.

‘If you gain approval, then it can be implemented with the endorsement of those who have to pay it.’

Mr Neil has pledged to place an amendment to legislation making it mandatory for local authorities to consult voters before introducing any charges.

In 2005, City of Edinburgh Council was forced to scrap plans for a congestion charging scheme following a referendum in which three quarters of voters rejected the move.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘We have said the legislation is contingent on the exclusion of hospitals and NHS properties, and will be engaging with stakeholders to help shape the specifics on the workplace parking levy.’