The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has issued several requests to Chancellor Rishi Sunak ahead of Wednesday’s budget.
The association is calling for a number of measures to support small retail businesses through the coronavirus emergency including:
– An immediate increase in the business rates discount to 75%, and extended to more businesses until this emergency has passed
– Tax holidays to support cash flow in businesses that will see significantly reduced sales – this could include reduced VAT and rates for larger businesses.
– Support for retailers when dealing with employees who are required to self isolate.
Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s ceo stated: “We need immediate action to support the economy.”
He elaborated: “We have all seen images from towns and cities in Europe that show deserted high streets and empty shops. The Budget needs to support the economy and we must ensure that the high street receives some of that support.”
Bira also hopes that the new Chancellor’s first Budget will include strategy for comprehensive reforms of the ‘unfair and out-dated’ business rates system, reducing the burden on high street retailers. The association also wants to see more ambitious plans for the new Digital Services Tax with online companies making a much larger contribution to the cost of running a business in the UK.
Top: Bira has issued a plea to Chancellor Rishi Sunak ahead of this week’s Budget statement.
