The Scottish Conservatives have expressed concern that too many businesses are not receiving the financial support they deserve after it was revealed that, despite complaints, there were still thousands of applications for support outstanding.

Scottish Conservative shadow finance secretary Donald Cameron said:

“These figures show progress on getting emergency cash to businesses has stalled across Scotland, with 15,000 still waiting for support.

“This is a major concern because we will not be able to turn the corner and revive the economy after the pandemic if businesses have collapsed in the meantime, despite the fact that our hardworking council workers are doing their very best to get vital cash out to vulnerable businesses.”

Mr Cameron, a Highlands and Islands MSP, added:

“Many businesses in my region are suffering from severe cash-flow problems exacerbated by the collapse in visitor numbers which are so important to the Highlands and Islands.

“We simply need to see greater urgency in helping them get through this.”