BRC sets out need for business rates freeze and reform in Parliament

The BRC spoke at an Industry and Parliament Roundtable on the future of business rates this week, setting out the need for the Chancellor to freeze the multiplier at this year's Autumn Statement to support retailers as they tackle inflation and grow the economy through investment, and for reform which reduces the burden that tax places on all retailers. 

The event took place under Chatham House Rules so we are unable to give a full run through of what was said, but there was agreement from across sectors and industries that the current system places an unsustainable burden on businesses and needs to be addressed. The need for a freeze was spoken to by many of the attendees, and we explained that whilst recent measures to improve the system have been welcome, there is still further to go for government. 

We will be continuing our call for a rates freeze in 2024/25 in the run up to the Autumn Statement (22 November) - please contact Tom McCarthy if you would like more details.