Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron has expressed disappointment after SNP and Green politicians voted down amendments which would have helped protect workers across the Highlands and Islands from the impact of the SNP’s car park tax.

They voted down an amendment proposed by Mr Cameron which would have exempted air ambulance and rescue service workers from the tax, as well as an amendment specifically aimed at protecting island communities.

Voting took place yesterday (Wednesday 9th October) during the passage of the Transport Bill.

Mr Cameron said: “I am totally opposed to the car park tax as it places an extra financial burden on hardworking people and their families.

“However, what is quite extraordinary is that SNP MSPs, and their Green allies, voted down all our efforts to mitigate its worst effects.

"Why on earth would they refuse to exempt emergency and rescue workers, who frequently work in extremely challenging conditions, often putting their lives on the line? 

“They should also have recognised that the cost of travel is already a major issue for our island communities who would have welcomed an additional layer of protection.

“Our amendments were uncontroversial and should have been accepted by the SNP Government without question.

“Ultimately SNP politicians, especially those who represent communities in the Highlands and Islands, will have to answer for these perverse decisions.”