The Government has announced a cut of 15% to new business rates as part of a package to 'back British pubs'.
Decisions made in the 2025 budget faced significant scrutiny, leading the Government to create the British pubs package.
The scheme aims to support business rates and licensing reform in the hopes of recognising the challenges pub owners face, and the role they play in local communities.
As part of the package, the Government has introduced a 15% cut to new business rates from April this year, followed by a two-year freeze. The Governments to also review the methods used to value pubs and venues for business rates.
The Government has also announced their 'High Street Strategy' to help ensure retail, leisure, and hospitality businesses can thrive.
This comes after financial pressure on privately owned venues such as pubs and bars has forced the closure of almost 7000 pubs since 2010, a 15% reduction and amongst the highest across the hospitality industry as a whole.
Leigh and Atherton MP, Jo Platt has welcomed the cuts to business rates for pubs, labelling them as "welcome and necessary".
In a post shared online, Jo Platt said: "Over recent weeks, I've spoken to countless hospitality owners across Leigh and Atherton who have shared their genuine fears about the sustainability of their businesses and the impact on their livelihoods, their staff, and the future of our high streets.
"Their passion, resilience and unwavering commitment to our communities is remarkable. They deserve a system that lifts them up, not places them under further strain.
"I have been raising these concerns persistently behind the scenes with Ministers, making clear just how important our local pubs are to the social and economic fabric of our towns. Last week, I signed a letter to the Chancellor on the damaging impact of high business rates on the music industry and I welcome the extension of these supportive measures to venues and studios. I’m pleased that these voices, and your voices, have been heard.
"I also recognise that this remains a difficult time for many other high street businesses. That is why I welcome today’s announcement that the Government will bring forward a new High Street Strategy to help ensure retail, leisure, and hospitality businesses receive the support they need.
"This is a positive step forward but is not the end. I remain firmly committed to making sure that pubs and all local businesses receive the fair, stable, and long‑term support they need to grow, innovate and thrive. I will continue to champion them every step of the way."
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