Press Releases
03-02-2010 : RURAL PETROL STATIONS NEED OUR SUPPORT
Commenting on reports that business rates could rise, putting Scottish petrol stations in danger Orkney MSP and Liberal Democrat Environment and Rural Affairs spokesman, Liam McArthur, said:
"For many people who live in rural and remote areas of Scotland, owning a car is a necessity not a luxury. Petrol stations in these areas provide a lifeline service.
"If rural petrol stations are forced to close hundreds of people will have to travel further to fill up. This will hit their wallets hard and damage the environment.
"The SNP have cut specific help for rural petrol stations introduced by the previous Executive. This is yet another blow to hard pressed petrol station owners."
Commenting further, Orkney and Shetland MP and Liberal Democrat Shadow Scotland Secretary, Alistair Carmichael, MP said:
"Anything that makes it more difficult for petrol stations to survive in rural communities will contribute to the ever rising cost of petrol and diesel.
"Yet again, businesses outside the Central Belt are left feeling the pinch as the SNP Government siphon off the cash for their pet projects."
Ends.
Notes to Editors
The Rural Petrol Stations Grant Scheme was introduced by the previous Executive. Responsibility for this was passed to Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Scottish Enterprise from 1 April 2008.
The Scottish Government has "no plans to extend the funding available".
Alistair Carmichael is holding a Westminster Hall debate in London on rural fuel prices next Wednesday, from 0930-1100.