Advocate Jonathan Murphy will chair the independent review into the rating valuation of licensed hospitality premises.
Mr Murphy, who has a specialised practice in valuation for rating, succeeds BJ Gill KC who stepped down after being appointed Solicitor General.
The valuation of all non-domestic property is a matter for the Scottish assessors who are independent of central and local government.
The review was prompted by widespread outrage over rocketing rates bills following this year’s review. Criticism has extended to the way in which the valuations are determined and how the valuers are seen to be unaccountable.
Scottish assessors use different ways to calculate the rateable values of properties, depending on the type of property, but there have been calls for the current 14 to be reduced in number.
The review will conclude by the end of this year so that any recommendations can be considered before the 2029 revaluation cycle which wil be based on rental values on 1 April 2028. A call for evidence has already been completed.
Public Finance Minister Hannah Mary Goodlad said: “The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that the valuation framework is fair, transparent and proportionate, while supporting a sustainable licensed hospitality sector.
“I am pleased Mr Murphy has accepted this appointment. He brings the knowledge, skills and independence required to lead this important work.
“As an advocate, with a specialised practice in valuation for rating, Mr Murphy has considerable expertise.
“Since being called to the Bar in 2020, he has acted for clients in appeals in all forums and appeared in high-value rating valuation cases in the Upper Tribunal and Lands Valuation Appeal Court numerous times in recent years. As chair, he will be supported by the current Review Group members.”
Mr Murphy said: “The review will continue to be evidence-based and thorough. I wish to extend my gratitude to the previous chair, BJ Gill KC, Solicitor General for Scotland, for his leadership during his tenure, including the ingathering of evidence from stakeholders.”
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