BILL MCALLISTER: Hoteliers need to have certainty on prices

There’s still plenty of visitors around the city centre but despite the busy season, local hoteliers and guest-house owners are in a bind.

People are contacting them to seek prices for a prospective visit next spring – but energy costs have to be factored in. Do they quote a room price which scares off visitors?

That’s why it’s important that the UK and Scottish governments do as much as they can to cushion the blow for the hospitality sector, so vital to the Inverness and Highland economy.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer’s mini-budget this week will offer the first clue as to whether the true risk to business and family budgets is fully appreciated. Soaring energy, food and fuel prices are a toxic mix and a threat to jobs.

Time for political leaders on both sides of the border to step up and offer more than sticking plaster.

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