Hospitality businesses facing "last chance saloon"

Liberal Democrats say business rates cut could be “last chance saloon” for hospitality businesses in Bristol

Liberal Democrat Councillors in Bristol have said that it is “absolutely urgent” for Ministers to provide clarity to pubs, hospitality, and high street businesses, with rumours circulating that the Government may be planning to reduce planned rises to business rates. 

Cllr Andrew Brown says that many high street businesses are facing the cumulative impact of high inflation, increased costs, and growing tax bills and that changing course on business rates rises is essential for the Government to help save local high streets.

Liberal Democrat MPs are also calling for an emergency cut to VAT for the hospitality sector to boost high streets and cut costs for local families. The sector has been hit hard in recent years by inflation and rises in employment costs, and it is hoped these measures will increase consumer spending.

Cllr Andrew Brown (Liberal Democrat, Hengrove and Whitchurch Park), Chair of the Council’s Economy and Skills Committee, said:

“Many of Bristol's hospitality businesses are currently drinking in the last chance saloon. From the employer’s National Insurance tax hike, to high energy bills, to increased supply costs, many small businesses in the city are on their last legs and need support. 

“These businesses are naturally worried sick, and uncertainty makes it impossible to plan for the future. The Government must respond by u-turning today and announcing support for all hospitality businesses, including a VAT cut to boost our local high streets.

“This is a pivotal moment for ministers, and it is urgent that they provide the clarity that these businesses need."

Notes to editors:

• There are rumours that the Government may u-turn on planned rises to business rates that threaten the hospitality sector.
• In the lead up to the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, the Liberal Democrats campaigned for VAT cuts for the hospitality sector: Slash VAT for Hospitality - Liberal Democrats