It’s time for the UK government to follow the lead of the Scottish Government on business rates
The UK Government’s lack of action to mitigate the impact of rising business rates in England is a serious concern, and it is clear that the UK government need to start looking at the actions of the Scottish Government.
Reports suggest that half a million businesses in England could face rates increases of up to 300%, and I agree with the CBI, the British Retail Consortium and the Federation of Small Businesses when they call these reports deeply concerning.
The UK Government should consider what action they can take for the hospitality sector in England in light of the Scottish Government’s action to cap bill increases at 12.5% for hotels, pubs and restaurants north of the border.
The SNP Westminster Group has published an Early Day Motion to Parliament setting out our concerns - now the UK government must listen and ought to follow Scotland’s lead. They must recognise the need to deliver further support for businesses in England on mitigating the impact of rates rises so that they can keep pace with Scotland, which is now the best place in the UK to open a small business.
