The MP for East Renfrewshire has flagged the current spring Budget as a 'last chance' to save struggling hair salons.

Kirsten Oswald said shifts in customer behaviour, increasing expenses, and payroll pressures for hair salons currently struggling.

Ms Oswald added: "I have been contacted by several hair and beauty salons in East Renfrewshire struggling to continue operating due to increased bills, changes in customer behaviour due to the cost-of-living crisis, and the current VAT regime.

"I have written to the Chancellor pressing for a reduction in VAT to 10% for hair salons.

"This move would deliver timely breathing space for many of these businesses which are under unprecedented pressure.

“The spring budget is a last chance to save hair salons from going under, ensuring our high streets remain dynamic and vibrant, and safeguarding employment and training opportunities.”

Ms Oswald also tabled an Early Day Motion at Westminster focusing on these concerns which received backing from a number of political parties, including the SNP, Liberal Democrats, Conservatives, Greens, and the DUP.

She maintains that the potential closure of hair salons could impact the vitality of high streets, employment opportunities, and tax revenues for the Exchequer.