Oral Question·Department for Business and Trade
“What steps he is taking to support independent retailers.”
Tabled: 10 July 2025Answered: 17 July 2025
Asked by
Lee Barron
Labour — Corby and East Northamptonshire
Answering Minister
the Secretary of State for Business and Trade
Answer from Hansard
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
We have frozen the small business multiplier for 2025-26, protecting over 1 million ratepayers from bill increases, and we are creating a fairer business rates system that protects the high street and supports investment. Our forthcoming SME strategy will set out further plans to help businesses on the high street and beyond.