Summarising the latest developments north of the border
New Bankruptcy Bill passed
The Scottish Parliament has approved a range of changes to Scotland’s bankruptcy laws. The main change is the introduction of a moratorium on debt recovery for those experiencing serious mental health difficulties, as well other changes to application and enforcement of debt recovery.
Should Scotland’s charity law be reformed?
The Scottish government has launched a wide-ranging consultation seeking views on whether Scotland’s charity regulation, largely created in 2006, needs to be updated. In particular they seek views on whether the responsibilities of trustees and the charitable purposes of organisations need to be updated; whether improvements are needed to technical areas, such as the incorporation of charitable organisations, as well as whether the current audit threshold needs to be increased.
ACCA will be responding to the consultation; please share any feedback with susan.love@accaglobal.com.
Scottish Visitor Levy Bill passed
The Scottish Parliament has also – after many years of discussion – passed legislation that will enable councils in Scotland to charge a ‘tourist tax’ on overnight stays, similar to charges that apply across many tourist hot spots.
An amendment that ensures an 18-month implementation period means the earliest any council could start charging the levy will be early 2026; however, it’s likely councils including Edinburgh will be keen to ensure this charge is added to relevant accommodation at the earliest available opportunity.
Scottish business support update
Check Business Support Scotland for information on a wide range of sectoral and local funding options open to SMEs.
Keep in touch
We really need your feedback on current business issues, so if you are able to spare a little time please sign up for our member survey platform Member Insights Community Registration or drop Susan a line at susan.love@accaglobal.com with any feedback.