Supplementary business rates and extra levies could severely damage business' ability to compete
21/01/08 | 16:29
Natalie Evans, Head of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“With the UK economy facing a downturn, conditions for enterprise worsening, and a number of additional business levies already in the pipeline, we are very concerned about the impact a Supplementary Business Rate could have on business’ ability to compete.
"While the government have clearly sought to restrict the scope and purpose to which an SBR could be used in their proposals, there needs to be a recognition of the cumulative impact that these charges could have on business. Companies are already paying; business rates, corporation tax, VAT, National Insurance, Business Improvement Districts and Section 106 agreements. On top of this, they could also be looking at a combination of SBRs, road pricing, workplace parking levies and a Community Infrastructure Levy. With Local Authorities facing a tight financial settlement the temptation to tax businesses further could be very damaging.
"We believe that it is crucial that any SBR proposal is for an infrastructure project that business believes is necessary with a clear project plan, ring-fenced, additional funds, and ongoing business oversight of the intiative. A business vote on any SBR proposals would best ensure these criteria are met."
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MEDIA CONTACT:NOTES TO EDITORS:The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is the National Voice of Local Business.
The BCC sits at the heart of a powerful nationwide network of Accredited Chambers of Commerce serving business across the UK, which employ over five million people.