Should Scotland have powers to set its own landfill tax rate?

• Posted On: 30/07/2010 12:02:07

• Category: Waste Management

The Scottish Environmental Services Association (SESA) - a trade body within the waste management sector - has warned that government plans to give Scotland the power to set its own landfill tax rate should be considered with caution.

As part of the coalition agreement, the government committed to bringing forward a Scotland Bill, which would allow the country to set its own tax rates. This decision was based on recommendations made by the Calman Commission. However, as Scotland’s Secretary for State Michael Moore prepared to implement the Commission’s recommendations, SESA has spoken out on the issue.

SESA believes that differing tax rates north and south of the Scottish border could damage what they call the ‘level playing field’ in the waste management sector, whilst also leaving the system open to exploitation by criminals. This view was also supported by the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM). CEO Steve Lee said:

“CIWM acknowledges that different tiers of tax and disposal regimes may encourage increased cross border waste movements which could be detrimental to both Scotland and the rest of the UK, so it is a matter that will need careful consideration,"