Scots Art Tax Break

Rock stars, painters and writers would be given Irish-style tax breaks under plans being considered by the Scottish National Party (SNP). They are looking at exempting artists from income and property tax, believing the measure would galvanise the arts sector and encourage creative people to live and work in Scotland. The idea is being examined by the SNP as part of their manifesto for next year’s election. They want to introduce a series of measures which would help artists on low incomes and turn Scotland into a “art cultural hub”. The idea is based on the “artistic exemption” scheme introduced in Ireland in 1969. The policy means Ireland’s artists avoid paying tax on royalties from albums, books art and other creative products. It costs the Irish government around £20 million every year and has been widely credited as having galvanised the arts sector. For the full story - click the title Irish Art