Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she plans to increase business rates on (a) airports and (b) airport operators; and if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of such an increase on regional airport (i) viability and (ii) connectivity.

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) conducts analysis of changes in rateable value to prepare for regular revaluations. The VOA is currently working on a revaluation of all non-domestic properties, which will come into effect on 1 April 2026. For the upcoming 2026 revaluation, as with other revaluations, the VOA is receiving ongoing representations from the airport sector.

The Government will confirm the rates for the new multipliers at Budget 2025, taking account of the outcomes of the 2026 revaluation as well as the broader economic and fiscal context.

We are fully committed to supporting the aviation industry. The sector is vital to our future as a global trading nation and will play an important role in local economies.