Bssa blasts lack of Government consultation for Small Business Rate Bill

The British Shops and Stores Association (bssa) reacted with dismay to the government’s announcement this week that it intends to unilaterally introduce a Small Business Rate Bill in the autumn without further consultation regarding the proper safeguards for retail businesses. Under the Bill, all businesses with a rateable value of over £50,000, will be eligible for the addition tax. As this is a sum which encapsulates many independent retailers operating on the high street it could have huge implications for them.

John Dean, bssa chief executive said: “This lack of consultation shows that the Government simply doesn’t understand or care about the pressures on smaller, independent retailers. A small business rate will add uncertainty, unpredictability and additional overhead to an independent sector that is already struggling to hold its own on the high street. If we are to have a vibrant, varied retail sector it needs to be nurtured not ignored.”

Bssa, which represents in excess of 4,000 members who have