Rebellion grows over empty property rates
A back bench rebellion is growing over the Government's decision to charge full business rates on empty commercial properties.
Empty property rates rebellion is growing
A total of 35 MPs have now signed an Early Day Motion (EDM) by Halifax MP Linda Riordan, and supported by the British Property Federation, calling for the tax to be scrapped.
The most significant change since the law came in to force on 1 April, is the scrapping of relief rates on empty property.
Under the revised system, full business rates apply to commercial property, including pubs, left vacant for more than three months.
The legislation could see more pubs knocked down to avoid the charges.
Labour MP Chris Mullin warned that the tax would be "disastrous" and would "send firms bankrupt within months".
He said: "The way forward is clear – local authorities must be given the discretion to apply common sense and relieve rates on unused and underused property.
"If disaster is to be averted, that will need to be done quickly, because the bills have already been sent out and the court orders for non-payment are already being applied for."
Riordan added: "The removal of empty property rate relief is a tax on hardship which hit just as the property market needed a kick start. It’s an added tax burden paid for by those whose properties are not making them an income.
"But the unwanted consequences have been felt most by disadvantaged areas where investment has been most needed."
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