Lochhead slams B&B coronavirus fund criticisms

MORAY'S MSP Richard Lochhead has hit back at criticisms of the system financial support for B&Bs and self catering.

Douglas Ross, Moray's Conservative MP, and the party's leader on Moray Council, Councillor Tim Eagle, had blasted the Scottish Government for dragging thir heels in getting the cash out to businesses in the sector, whic have been hit hard by the pandemic.

Mr Ross said that the government had earlier stated that two support schemes – one for businesses that do not pay rates or council tax and another separate fund for larger self-catering premises –were both "now open".

He went on to state that Moray Council, which is tasked with management fund disbursement in the region, had not issued any funds nor contacted any businesses regarding it.

However, the SNP's Mr Lochhead hit back, saying the Scottish Government and local authorities such as Moray Council were working "incredibly hard" to get financial aid out where it was needed.

"It is another day and another critical press release from the local Tory party," he continued.

"Meanwhile, the Scottish Government and local authorities are working hard to deliver support for businesses to help them through what is an incredibly challenging time.

“Scottish Ministers are trying to support those that have been excluded from the previous support schemes and who aren’t eligible for UK government support.

“My understanding is that the Moray Council expects to be able to start issuing grants very soon and I’ve no doubt that businesses in Moray will be relieved to receive this support. I’m grateful to the team at the Moray Council for their incredible efforts over the last year – they’ve done a great job in tough circumstances.”