Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed an announcement to soften the effect of looming rate rises on pubs was coming in the next few days or weeks.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Breakfast, Reeves said the “biggest concern” was around pubs, which she said were badly hit during the pandemic and were facing a particular increase in business rates.
“I think most people would accept that now the pandemic is over, some of that temporary support does need to come away. But it’s about the speed at which you do that,” she said.
Reeves was asked what support measures other hospitality businesses in the country could expect, but she reiterated that pubs were her main concern as of right now.
“I think that people can see that the biggest impact and the biggest concern right now is around pubs. Some of the smallest businesses, particularly some cafes, don’t pay any business rates at all because they’re not big enough to do so.”
The Beer and Pub Association says its welcomes the ongoing discussion around business rates and support measure for pubs.
“News that the government is going to look again at business rates increases is potentially a huge win for pubs across the country and shows Government have not only listened to our concerns but acted,” it said in a statement last week.
“This could save locals, jobs, and means publicans can breathe a huge sigh of relief. The BBPA has worked closely with ministers on a pub specific solution that would ensure that bills are reduced in line with the government’s previous promises to pubs.
“We now keenly await to see the detail of the upcoming announcement.”
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