Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:
To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the effect of the changes in business rates on businesses located in areas where there is population of (a) 10,000 or less and (b) 3,000 or less.
The effect of the revaluation of business rates on businesses in areas where there is population of 10,000 or less and 3,000 or less will depend on the specific circumstances and location of the relevant property. A £3.6 billion transitional relief scheme will provide support to properties which face an increase in rates. My Department is working closely with the Treasury to determine how best to provide further support to businesses facing the steepest increases. We expect to be in a position to make an announcement on this at the Budget.