Speaking in a debate on business rates, James Wild MP refuted the government's claims of record low business taxes – a claim which he has referred to the Office for Statistics Regulation for investigation.
He warned that in reality, independent pubs face bills rising up to 144% by 2028-29 and questioned why the new multiplier system targets high street anchor retail stores rather than online giants.
James called on the Minister to clarify how many businesses would lose out and outlined the Conservative alternative of permanent 100% business rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses up to £110,000 rateable value, benefiting approximately 250,000 small businesses.
Read the full text James’ speech here: Draft Local Government Finance Act 1988 (Prescription - Hansard - UK Parliament
