HM Treasury has opened submissions for representations to Autumn Budget 2017
ACS is calling for the following measures to support local shops.
A proper review of the business rates system
- Restructure the rates system so that it incentivises investment
- Clarify the timetable for 100% funding of rural rate relief
- Review the rating for properties not based on rental value such as petrol forecourts and cash machines
- Urgently address the problems with the online portal for rates appeals
Mitigate the impact of rising employment costs
- Reinstate the independence of the Low Pay Commission to set wage rates without arbitrary political targets
- Review the costly and complex proposal to introduce a surcharge on NLW/NMW for those working outside of contracted hours
- Make statutory sick pay an accrued employment right
Freeze duty rates on alcohol, tobacco and fuel
- Focus on local enforcement action against those selling illicit tobacco and alcohol
- Remove the alcohol licences of those selling non-duty paid goods instead of issuing verbal or written warnings
- Any changes to duty rates should be delayed until at least 1st January 2018 to minimise pricing disruption in the lead up to Christmas
Consultation details:
ACS' submission:
