Particle.news
Download on the App Store
12 ARTICLES
·
6mo ago

Pub Leaders Demand 30% Rates Relief as 'No Labour MPs' Bans Spread

Industry bodies warn bills will jump despite the Budget’s 5% cut.

Nearly 5,000 of the country’s smallest pubs are now subject to business rates, with the industry warning this could put them under severe financial strain (Photo: Getty)
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • After an emergency summit, the British Beer and Pub Association urged a pub‑specific 30% business rates relief to avert closures and job losses.
  • Publicans are displaying “No Labour MPs” stickers in a coordinated protest led by campaigner Andy Lennox, with reports ranging from dozens to hundreds of participating venues.
  • The Budget introduced a permanent 5% cut for hospitality and retail, ends the current 40% discount on March 31, and adds a £3.2bn transitional relief scheme with lower multipliers for the sector.
  • UKHospitality estimates an average £1,400 rise in pub rates next year and a 76% increase over three years, while the BBPA reports rateable values up about 30%, implying average bills up 63% and around 4,800 of the smallest pubs becoming liable for rates.
  • Some MPs say the bans hinder constituency work, with local representatives warning they are being blocked from engaging with business owners on the new costs.