Government says cut will save pubs around £1,100 next yearpublished at 06:20 BST
06:20 BST
Henry Zeffman
Chief political correspondent
More details now on the government’s announcement to slash business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues.
The government says it is expected to save a typical pub an estimated £1,100 in tax next year.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham says the policy’s a sign that his government will “back the businesses that people want to see in their communities” rather than standing by while “cherished venues have disappeared from our local high streets”.
Downing Street says the tax cut, which will cost around £100 million a year, will be funded by a review of tax reliefs currently given to businesses which “do not make a positive contribution to local communities, such as vape shops”.
Image source, EPA
It adds the government will also “crack down” on businesses selling through online marketplaces which “do not comply with their tax obligations”.
The rates cut will not apply to the very largest live music venues, with more details of which businesses are eligible to be announced at John Healey’s first Budget in the autumn.