The Commons Treasury Committee has published its report on business rates. Are changes on the horizon?
The Treasury Committee has just published its report on its inquiry into the administration of business rates in England and, at first glance, it could be the catalyst to drive the change that many businesses have been calling for.
The Treasury Committee has just published its report on its inquiry into the administration of business rates in England and, at first glance, it could be the catalyst to drive the change that many businesses have been calling for.
Amongst other findings, the inquiry has highlighted how the current system does not fall on all businesses equally. Similar businesses can end up paying widely varying rates, and retailers that require a high street presence pay disproportionately more, than those that are internet based. The report also argues that the number of reliefs available and the complexities surrounding their application further proves how strained the system is.
Many alternatives were presented to the committee and it is recommended that the Government should prepare a consultation on these in time for the Spring Statement 2020.
However, it cannot be ignored that the Government generates a huge amount of income from business rates - £31 billion in 2018-19. If change is coming, then it is certainly going to take time.
Related expertise
You may be interested in...
Legal Update
A new planning bill for Wales: What will this mean?
Opinion
Pride Month: A time to review DEI
Guide
Legal project management: A cornerstone in operational delivery of inquiries
Legal Update
Analysis: National audit on group-based child sexual exploitation and abuse (June 2025)
Press Release
Browne Jacobson comments on the government's 10 year infrastructure strategy
Opinion
Employer redundancy guide: Sourcing alternative employment
Guide
Recovering insurance commission payments: tenant considerations post-Trocadero v Picturehouse
Press Release - Firm news
Browne Jacobson delivers record-breaking growth as strategic vision drives exceptional performance
Opinion
Spending Review: Setting the stage for UK investment
Guide
Using AI for recruitment: The data issues
On-Demand
Nuclear PSG webinar: Conflict avoidance on major projects
Press Release
Spending Review 2025: Browne Jacobson lawyers respond to Chancellor’s announcement
Legal Update
ESG and sustainability report: Rethinking communication and credibility
Press Release
Majority of UK organisations remain committed to sustainability and ESG, says new research
Legal Update - Public matters newsletter
Public matters: May 2025
Legal Update
Is the standards regime about to undergo a significant overhaul?
Legal Update
Navigating the streets: The legal landscape of low traffic neighbourhoods
Legal Update - Planning reform
All change: The implications of planning reform upon regeneration projects
Legal Update
Supporting local authorities in tackling housing challenges
Legal Update
Consultation on proposed changes to Estyn inspection regime in Wales
Published Article
Andrew Walker, Bridget Tatham: The case for better risk management
Opinion
Disciplinary procedures and mental health: Employer considerations
Legal Update
Supporting mental wellbeing in the workplace: Practical steps for businesses
Press Release - Firm news
Browne Jacobson appoints Will Thomas as Partner in planning team
Press Release
US-UK trade deal: Reaction from Browne Jacobson lawyers
Press Release
Browne Jacobson signs strategic partnership with Local Government Information Unit
Opinion
EHRC releases guidance for employers after Supreme Court ruling on definition of woman
Press Release
Browne Jacobson to explore skills challenges in built environment at UKREiiF event
Legal Update
2025/26 employment rates and limits: Are costs increases having a negative impact on the job market?
Legal Update - Public matters newsletter
Public matters: April 2025
Press Release - Firm news
Browne Jacobson appoints Bernhard Maier as Head of Arbitration
Legal Update
Conservation covenants: A useful tool in the toolbox?
Legal Update
Changes to s.106 procedures required to safeguard planning permission
Legal Update - Planning reform
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill: Clause 45 compulsory training for members of local planning authorities
Legal Update
Government publishes response to consultation on Subsidy Control Regime
Legal Update
Making public inquiry recommendations work
Legal Update
Updated Modern Slavery Act Transparency Guidance: Key obligations and steps for businesses
Legal Update
Martyn’s Law: Implications for public authorities
Article - Employment Rights Bill
The Employment Rights Bill: What the new amendments mean for employers
