Shipley MP Philip Davies calls for cut in business rates

Speaking in the House of Commons, Tory Mr Davies said smaller shops in particular had faced tough trading conditions for the past five years while having to cope with soaring businesses rates.

“Businesses across my constituency and particularly those in places such as Saltaire are struggling as a result of the increase in business rates,” he said.

“Given that such businesses are the backbone of our local communities and local economies, the Government should surely do more to alleviate the cost of business rates.”

Mr Davies’s remarks were welcomed by Saltaire Traders’ Association chairman, David Ford.

“I very much support Mr Davies’s comments on this and as a member of the party in power he’s in a position to help do something,” bookshop owner Mr Ford said. “High rates are at least an itchy sore when it comes to costs and often the main reason so many smaller businesses are going under.”

Mr Davies urged the Government to reduce or freeze business rates, as it had with council tax for householders and called for a swift debate.

He said: “Retailers are having a really tough time at the moment and it is very difficult for them to keep going, let alone thrive. Excessive rates are making many retailers unviable.

"They need help and support and lowering business rates should happen at the very least they should be frozen. This is essential or many will go to the wall.”

Business rates are a form of property tax and are tied to inflation. Commons Leader Andrew Lansley said he “understood” Mr Davies’s point. He said: “Due to the growth incentive, which is part of the drive towards the devolution of responsibilities, local authorities now have greater flexibility to offer business rate discounts in particular circumstances.”

Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for employment, skills and culture, Susan Hinchcliffe said while she agreed with Mr Davies in principle, it was down to central Government which set current rates.