Dr Al Pinkerton

I agree with that assessment. I have pubs in my patch that say exactly the same things to me. They are not in the same kind of more rurally sensitive communities that my hon. Friend refers to, but I fundamentally agree with her analysis. That is not a situation that is unique to Surrey Heath or to my hon Friend’s patch at all. I hope that the Government will commit to fundamental reform of that particular tax structure. Another issue that I am seeing in Surrey Heath is the growth of shoplifting and antisocial behaviour. It deters customers, it suppresses footfall and it makes it more difficult for businesses to operate and thrive. In Camberley, our main market town, that is causing significant losses to businesses, and business owners tell me that they are tempted to move away from our community altogether because of the challenges they face. Police have issued dispersal orders across many market towns across this country, but I would like to ask the Secretary of State explicitly what assessment he has made as to the effectiveness of those particular measures. There should be far greater police visibility in our town centres to deter crime and to give businesses the encouragement and support that they need to thrive. In conclusion, and because I only have a few seconds left, will the Minister say whether the Government have considered reforming business rates to ensure local communities retain more of the revenue generated by local high street businesses—as these communities expect to happen already? Also, what support is in place for high street businesses facing closure due to crime and antisocial behaviour?