Leader: Salmond makes another giant leap

REPORTS that the Liberal Democrats are preparing to strike a deal by which they will support the SNP's proposals for local income tax (LIT) mark a potential major breakthrough in steering this controversial legislation through the Holyrood Parliament. The Lib Dems have indicated that they would support the SNP's bill if it gives town halls the power to determine local tax rates after an initial two-year 'bedding-in period' when the rate will be determined centrally from E

Such a deal would help the Lib Dems back into the political limelight. For the SNP, it offers the prospect of this controversial reform making it to the statute book in the face of strong opposition from Labour and the Conservatives. The deal address...