A cross-section of independent retailers were at the heart of an all-important business rates discussion at Bira’s HQ in Birmingham held on Monday May 20, attended by senior MPs.
The Rt Hon Nicky Morgan, MP (chair of the Treasury Committee), alongside MPs Steve Baker, Alison McGovern and Clive Betts (chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee), brought the Treasury Committee’s enquiry into business rates to Birmingham, with the MPs speaking to a cross-section of independent retailers at the British Independent Retailers Association’s (Bira’s) head office.
The Committee heard how business rates are crippling retailers and listened to suggestions for a new system.
“It was incredibly important for the committee to come out of London to hear from retailers from the rest of the country and to gain an understanding of what is happening at the coal face,” stated Bira’s ceo Andrew Goodacre. “The MPs really listened to the retailers’ views and agreed that significant change is needed.”
He added: “We were also pleased to hear that Bira’s proposal for a business rates allowance was heard, as well as more fundamental calls for reform.”
Top: Senior MPs and retailers got together at Bira’s HQ earlier this week to discuss moving forward on business rates. Bira’s ceo Andrew Goodacre is second on the right.
