Fighting for local businesses

High Street businesses across the country are struggling. From pubs to hairdressers, the cumulative impact of rising business rates, energy bills and increases to national insurance contributions means it’s never been more difficult for them to succeed.

Only a couple of weeks ago, West Byfleet lost its last bank – and Woking also recently lost its last Brewery, Thurstons. It’s former owner, John, called the demise “death by a thousand cuts”.

Add to this the inflation caused by Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine and the cost of living crisis reducing customers spending power, it’s more important now than ever to push for additional support.

The Government needs to give business a break. That is why I’ve urged Ministers to look at Liberal Democrat proposals to cut VAT, including a 5% cut for pubs, the hospitality sector and, I hope, hairdressers.

Property taxes – business rates, council tax and stamp duty – are some of the most controversial and despised taxes in the country. We should look at property tax reform and genuinely reform business rates.

I’ve also urged the government to look again at the effectiveness of the high street rental auctions scheme. At the last count, Woking town centre had 112 properties that have been empty for a year or more. I’ve demanded the government reviews the scheme and works with local authorities to ensure they are empowered and have the resources to bring those properties back into use.

I am pleased that the Government have given support to some businesses, but the fact that they are tinkering around the edges shows that the whole system is broken. If the Government make at least some of the changes I am calling for, we can grow our economy, provide employment and training for young people, and ensure that our high streets thrive.

Watch my speech