Oral Answers to Questions

Catherine West Excerpts

Tuesday 27th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Dan Tomlinson]

I have got the idea, Mr Speaker!

The key thing to note here is that there is a significant difference between the change in the rateable value and the change in the business rates. This year, we have stepped in to cap the increases for bills at £800 for those coming into the system for the first time. For most high street businesses, the increase will be 15%, while the very largest will see increases of 30%. Those are the steps we have taken. When the Liberal Democrats were in government, they chose to increase VAT on businesses up and down the country.

[Catherine West (Hornsey and Friern Barnet) (Lab)]

I wish you a speedy recovery, Mr Speaker.

Will the Minister say something about music recording studios, such as the Church Studios, where Annie Lennox recorded “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”? Could he give me a sweet dream this evening and tell me that my music recording studio is going to be fine?

[Dan Tomlinson]

I am very fond of my constituency neighbour, who has the privilege of sharing a part of Barnet with me. There will be news this afternoon—I am just trying to find my words, Mr Speaker.

Oral Answers to Questions

Catherine West Excerpts

Tuesday 4th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Rachel Reeves]

In the hon. Gentleman’s constituency, the number of people waiting more than 18 weeks for an appointment has also fallen. That is exactly what that money is being used for. He needs to be clear, and so do those on the Opposition Front Bench: if they want to reverse the increase to national insurance, they must also accept that there will be less money for our national health service. That is a choice, and it would be interesting to hear whether it is the Opposition’s choice.

[Catherine West (Hornsey and Friern Barnet) (Lab)]

On 6 December, Small Business Saturday will have us all out in our constituencies supporting small businesses. Following the announcement this morning about the need to enhance productivity, what measures will the Treasury be introducing to assist small businesses in the current tough climate?

[Rachel Reeves]

My hon. Friend is a strong champion for people in Hornsey and Wood Green, including small businesses. Last year at the Budget, we set out the principles in the consultation on business rates reform. Our principle is to make it easier for small businesses and high street businesses, while making sure that the online retail giants pay their fair share of tax. We will be setting out more information on our reformed business rate system to help our high streets and help our small businesses on 26 November.