- Published date:
- 26 November 2025
In response to the business rates announcements as part of the Autumn Budget, our Director of Policy Ion Fletcher said:
“The business rates support for the high street masks a 4.9% total increase in the rates burden this year and massive 10.2% hike for the next financial year that will put jobs and growth across the country in jeopardy.
“This is not, as the Chancellor suggested, a de facto tax on online retailers, it will hit all businesses in larger, high value buildings including manufacturing, life sciences and logistics businesses in warehouses, as well as financial and professional services based in modern office space.
“This poorly-targeted tax change will hit the same high-productivity sectors that are at the heart of the Industrial Strategy and critical for driving economic growth. Business rates is a major contributor to the UK having the highest level of property taxes in the OECD which is completely at odds with the aim of getting Britain building.”
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