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I hope this letter finds you well. As a constituent and a supporter of the hospitality and night-time economy sectors, I am writing to you to express my deep concern regarding the long-standing issue of vital business rates relief not being passed on to Scottish small businesses in the Hospitality and Retail sectors. Westminster has provided significant direct financial support to hospitality and retail sector businesses elsewhere in the UK, with a 50% business rates discount in 2022/23, a 75% business rates discount in 2023/24, and it has now been announced that this 75% discount support will be extended for 2024/25. Equivalent Funding has been provided to the Scottish Government through the Barnett Consequentials to also allow for this level of support to be provided in Scotland, however, Scottish businesses received only a quarter of the support provided in England during 2022, and nothing in the current financial year at all. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for businesses across the nation, particularly those in the hospitality and tourism sector. While the Scottish Government has taken commendable steps to support businesses during the pandemic, the failure to pass on business rates relief from Westminster to enable a recovery has left many enterprises in our region struggling to survive. Following two years of sub-standard support this situation now threatens the very existence of numerous establishments. The hospitality and night-time economy sectors, which are vital contributors to our local economy and sources of employment, have been disproportionately affected. These businesses have faced unprecedented challenges, including prolonged closures, restrictions, and a sharp decline in footfall. It is disheartening to note that many of these businesses have missed out on nearly two years of business rates relief, putting immense strain on their financial viability. The potential consequences of this oversight are dire, with thousands of jobs and livelihoods at stake. As our elected representative, I implore you to take swift and decisive action to address this issue and ensure that the Scottish Government passes on the business rates relief to these sectors that desperately need it. The survival of these establishments is not only crucial for our economy but also for the well-being of countless individuals and families who depend on them for their livelihoods. I appreciate your dedication to serving our community, and I trust that you will champion the cause of our struggling Scottish Small Businesses businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors. I look forward to hearing about the actions you will take to address this pressing matter and support the survival of our local businesses. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue, and I remain hopeful that together, we can secure a brighter future for our community. Yours sincerely,

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