Government consults pubs on business rates

The Administration of Business Rates in England Discussion Paper​ announced by the Government this afternoon, is inviting views on five elements ahead of the planned 2017 business rates revaluation.

They are how property is valued; how often property is valued; how business rates bills are set; how business rates are collected and how information about ratepayers and business rates is used.

Both the British Beer and Pub Association and the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers have long called for the Government to address the ‘disproportionate’ and ‘astonishingly large amounts’ of local business taxes pubs face compared to other high street retailers.

Crucial​

“A key part of the Government’s long-term economic plan is to back business with taxes which are lower and more efficient,” local government minister Brandon Lewis said. “We have already brought in the biggest package of business rate support in over 20 years for small firms, local shops and pubs.

“The Government will now look at options for longer-term administrative reform of business rates after 2017 that are simpler and deliver fairness, stability and predictability to ratepayers.”

Publicans have until 6 June 2014 to disclose their views on the discussion paper.

Support​

David Gauke, exchequer secretary to the Treasury added: “The Government’s long term economic plan is to support business and enterprise and we have taken a number of steps to help them with their business rates. This includes over £1 billion of business rates support which took effect on Sunday.

“Through this review, we want to look at options for longer-term reforms that will make the system fairer, more efficient and more responsive to economic circumstances, while making sure business rates remain a stable and sustainable tax which funds essential local services."