Andy Burnham consults small businesses in Devon
Andy Burnham will consult small businesses on how the Government can best assist with their long-term planning, reports BritPanorama.
This engagement is part of his summer tour, which arrives in Devon on Friday. Mr. Burnham has consistently emphasized his commitment to supporting local enterprises, previously referring to independent businesses as the “beating heart of our communities”.
The Prime Minister aims to foster a renewed partnership between Government and small businesses, following recent announcements regarding tax cuts targeted at pubs, clubs, and venues. These measures are designed to address the needs of businesses amid ongoing financial challenges.
Among the initiatives introduced by Mr. Burnham upon taking office was a 20% business rates relief for hospitality sites. This decision forms part of a broader strategy aimed at alleviating cost-of-living pressures in the sector.
The Prime Minister remarked on the importance of local businesses by stating, “Local businesses are the beating heart of our communities, bringing life to the places we call home.” He further highlighted ongoing support by noting, “We are helping pubs, social clubs and live music venues by cutting their business rates, but I’ve always said there is more to do.”
Allen Simpson, chief executive of UKHospitality, reaffirmed the necessity of hospitality in addressing youth employment, emphasizing that hotels, pubs, cafes, and restaurants form the backbone of coastal and rural communities. He praised the Prime Minister’s proactive engagement with business owners.
Simpson added, “It’s encouraging that the Prime Minister is spending his first weeks in the role speaking with businesses and understanding what employers need to create jobs across the UK. I hope in the coming months we will see this sense of change continue.”
As the Budget approaches on October 28, Mr. Burnham has hinted at the potential for further changes to business rates relief, indicating a willingness to explore broader reforms that could benefit high street businesses.
In an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live’s Wake Up To Money programme, he stated, “We are going to bring forward the VAT cuts on electricity. We are bringing forward the business rate cuts for pubs, and we’re going to look at business rates more broadly for high street businesses in the Budget, so there’s plenty more that we can do.”
The interactions between Government and local businesses come at a critical time for the UK economy, highlighting the need for continued focus on economic revitalization.
