Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations make provision as to the amount payable in certain circumstances as non domestic rates in respect of property in Scotland. They apply only to financial year 2004-2005.

Regulation 3 provides for a general reduction in rates for non-domestic subjects with a rateable value of £10,000 or less. Regulation 3(2) provides for a reduction on a sliding scale of between 10 per cent and 50 per cent on the rates payable where the cumulative rateable value of the property occupied by the ratepayer is less than £7,000. Where the amount of the rates payable is reduced or remitted by virtue of any of the enactments listed at regulation 3(3)(a) or is determined in accordance with regulation 3(3)(b) then the reduction in rates is limited to 5 per cent. Where the amount of rates payable is reduced or remitted by virtue of the enactments listed at regulation 5(b) and regulation 3(3) does not apply then the percentage of rates relief given on the sliding scale shall be applied to the rates as reduced or remitted. Where the cumulative value of the non-domestic subjects occupied by the ratepayer is £7000 or above but includes subjects which are valued at £10,000 or under then the reduction on the rates payable on the said subjects is restricted to 5 per cent.

Regulation 4 provides for a general increase in rates for properties with a rateable value of more than £25,000.