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Abolition of Business Rates
12 January 2021
Lead MP
Kevin Hollinrake
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationBusiness & Trade
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Kevin Hollinrake raised concerns about abolition of business rates in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Proposes to abolish business rates completely, replacing the revenue with a small increase in VAT. Emphasises that business rates were designed for an outdated era when businesses were predominantly high street-based. Argues that online sales tax would only partially level the playing field and could be too blunt an instrument. Suggests scrapping business rates entirely and applying a small VAT increase, thereby immediately levelling the playing field without additional bureaucracy or burden on business.
Kevin Hollinrake
Con
Thirsk and Malton
Proposes to abolish business rates and replace them with a small VAT increase. Argues that this would level the playing field between online businesses and high street retailers, addressing issues of rent and rates disproportionately affecting high street businesses compared to their online counterparts.
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Assessment & feedback
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.