Mansion tax a step towards a fairer Scotland
The Scottish Greens have welcomed the launch of the Scottish Government's consultation on a new mansion tax, describing it as an important milestone while calling for wider reform to give councils the resources they need.
The proposal, secured by the Scottish Greens through budget negotiations, would create two new council tax bands for homes worth more than £1 million and £2 million, raising additional funding for local services.
Scottish Green MSP Lorna Slater said:
"The launch of this consultation is an important milestone. The mansion tax will raise vital funds for schools, libraries and other local services, while helping to respond to Scotland's housing emergency.
"It is happening because Scottish Green MSPs and housing campaigners made it a priority in budget negotiations.
"Alongside the private jet tax, which was also secured by the Greens, it reflects a simple principle. If we want properly funded public services, we need to ensure that those with the greatest wealth are paying their fair share."
Lorna added:
“This is a significant step, but it can’t be the end of the conversation. There's much further to go if we are to give our services the funding they deserve.
"We need to go further to empower councils, reduce inequality and build a tax system that reflects people's ability to pay.
"With more Green MSPs than ever before, we'll continue making the case for the bold change that is needed to build a fairer and greener Scotland."