This petition was submitted during the 2019-2024 parliament
Petition Cut business rates for shopkeepers, to protect jobs and support communities.
Since 1990, business rates have increased by almost 50% and are one of the largest costs paid by shopkeepers. They have contributed to the closure of many of our favourite shops, leading to the loss of jobs and community ties. A deep reduction in business rates will reverse this trend.
More details
We have seen many local shops shut for good during the Covid-19 pandemic and many others are holding on by a thread.
The Government is carrying out a fundamental review of business rates.
Big cuts in business rates for retail will help local shops to survive and compete against online retail giants.
The Chancellor should also introduce annual revaluations for business rates for retail from 2023.
Parliament should seek a clear commitment from government to put forward these reforms.
This petition is closed This petition ran for 6 months
Related activity
Share your ideas for supporting UK high streets
On 19 October, Janet Daby MP will lead a Westminster Hall debate on support for UK high streets.
To inform the debate, she wants to hear about your experiences and ideas. She may quote your contribution directly during her debate.
Find out more and share your ideas with her here:
https://houseofcommons.shorthandstories.com/support-for-uk-high-streets/index.html
Videos of the debate, the transcript and other relevant material will be accessible shortly after the debate on this webpage.
The deadline for contributions is: midday, 13 October
What are Westminster Hall debates?
Westminster Hall is the second Chamber of the House of Commons.
Westminster Hall debates give MPs an opportunity to raise local or national issues and receive a response from a government minister. Any MP can take part in a Westminster Hall debate.
Debates in Westminster Hall take place on ‘general debate' motions expressed in neutral terms. These motions are worded ‘That this House has considered [a specific matter]'.