Yousaf's 'regret' over council tax freeze surprise

Decision stunned local authorities

-  PAUL HUTCHEON

HUMZA Yousaf said he regrets the way the SNP announced a council tax freeze without telling local authorities, a leaked document reveals.

The First Minister is said to have admitted the surprising announcement was a "setback" for relations with councils.

The leaked paper by council umbrella body Cosla also claimed civil servants were unaware of the one-year policy and had concerns.

Council bosses are furious Yousaf backed a freeze at SNP conference this week without informing them. They fear the policy will not be fully funded and will leave them having to make massive cuts.