MPs Raise Business Rates Reform at Treasury Questions

The BRC’s campaign for a meaningful reduction in business rates for retail properties continues to gain momentum ahead of the Autumn Budget.

It was positive to see cross-party support on this issue in recent Treasury Questions. Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart raised our call to ensure that no shop pays more, while Conservative MP Joe Robertson highlighted the pressures facing retailers following the last Budget, which led to higher costs and reduced investment.

Retailers continue to face significant cost pressures, with government policy adding billions in extra costs this year through higher employment expenses, National Insurance changes and new packaging taxes. Business rates remain one of the largest fixed costs facing the industry, holding back investment, limiting the ability of retailers to keep prices affordable, and contributing to store closures and job losses across the country. A meaningful reduction in these costs would help ease inflationary pressures and support local economies at a critical time.

The BRC will continue to press the Government to deliver a fair outcome for retailers in the forthcoming Budget, helping to support jobs, growth and the future of high streets across the UK.

Check out the questions below.