UKHospitality urges gov't action on business rates report
Kate Nicholls argues the current system contributed to the decline of high streets.
Trade body UKHospitality expressed support for the House of Commons Treasury Committee’s report on the Impact of Business Rates on Business, saying that the “burden” of business rates “has grown.”
“The current system is nowhere near flexible enough and it has directly contributed to the decline of high streets,” UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said.
“Hospitality businesses are at a particular disadvantage and have been arguably hammered worse than any other sector. The current system penalises businesses who invest in their properties and actually acts as a deterrent to investment. We need a complete rethink of the system and an overhaul to bring it in line with the 21st Century.”
Echoing the committee’s recommendation, Nicholls urged for consultation to identify alternatives to the current system.
“The incoming Government must act on this as a priority. We will be keeping up the pressure with recommendations to ensure fairness for hospitality,” she added.
