'Green ports' vision outlined by Ross-based MSP as Scottish Government trade minister sets out plans; Holyrood 'operating with one hand tied behind its back' claim amid intense interest from Cromarty Firth businesses
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AN alternative vision for post-Brexit free ports have been outlined by a Ross-shire based MSP amid calls on the Scottish Government to take action over the issue.
Following a statement from Ivan McKee, the Minister for Trade, Investment and Innovation in Holyrood, the Scottish Government set out its plans for a "tailored approach" to the free port model, dubbing them "green ports".
The Scottish Government says it wants to create a "technology enabled, net zero, inclusive wellbeing economy that delivers for every place and community in Scotland".
Highlands & Islands MSP Maree Todd has backed the move.
As with the UK government’s model being supported by a number of MSPs, the incentives and support on offer to Scottish green ports would be a mixture of reserved and devolved tax benefits and other support.
Freeports are designated areas where goods can be imported from outside the UK without paying customs duties. Customs duty becomes payable only when the goods, possibly after processing, enter the domestic market. Other incentives on tax, planning and reduced red tape may also be available.
The Scottish Government’s green ports would make it necessary for operators and businesses benefitting from the package of incentives to:
Pay the Living Wage
Adopt the Scottish Business Pledge
Commit to supporting sustainable and inclusive growth in local communities
Contribute to Scotland’s just transition to net zero
Ms Todd MSP said: “I welcome the news that the Scottish Government intends to move forward with its plans for Scotland’s very first green ports.
“This has been an area that has attracted a lot of debate and raised a lot of questions in recent months, but through listening to businesses, local authorities and other partners, the Scottish Government has been able to develop a tailored approach for Scotland.
“In the Scottish context, green ports will accelerate decarbonisation, create fair work opportunities and offer great community benefits to the areas in which they are based.
“A green port would be positive for the Highlands and would aid us in our economic recovery from Covid-19. However, as positive a development this would be for the area, it would not offset the damage that Brexit has and will continue to inflict on the region.
“The Scottish Government is working hard to mitigate the damage caused by an extreme Tory Brexit, but with limited devolved powers, it’s currently operating with one hand tied behind its back.
“The only way to protect our interests, secure a strong economic recovery as we emerge from the pandemic, and regain the full benefits of EU membership is with the full powers of independence.”
Supporters of the original freeport concept have said one centred on the Cromarty Firth could sustain 50 years worth of work down the supply chain as the energy sector transitions to renewables.
Related: MSPs call on Scottish Government to back Easter Ross freeport push
Businesses back Cromarty Firth freeport bid
Invergordon freeport bid 'should be shouted from the rooftops' says Easter Ross councillor
