Scottish councils seek powers to tax cruise ships

The Scottish government is considering allowing local councils the power to impose a levy on cruise ships docking at their ports, as cruise tourism in Scotland has seen significant growth post-pandemic. A consultation is set to open to gather opinions on this proposed cruise ship tax, which could be the first of its kind in the UK. While some councils, like Orkney Islands, support the idea, industry representatives warn that such a tax could deter cruise operators from visiting Scottish ports, potentially harming local economies. The Scottish Greens advocate for the levy, citing environmental concerns and the need for funds to support local infrastructure. The finance secretary emphasized the importance of understanding the diverse perspectives on this issue before any legislation is introduced. The proposed tax reflects ongoing efforts to balance tourism benefits with the pressures on local communities and environments.