Pubs Bognor Regis and Littlehampton 2025-12-11
2025-12-11
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Chancellor's budget was described as a bitter attack on the pub industry, with increases in business rates, minimum wage, and alcohol duty impacting local businesses.
I am concerned about the impact of recent tax hikes on pubs in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton. Iain Brown from the William Hardwicke pub and Charlie Cockaday from the Fox Inn reported significant financial pressures due to increased rates and other costs, making it difficult for them to break even. What steps is his Department taking to help these businesses survive?
We recognise the ongoing pressures faced by pubs and are taking action through targeted support. The main transitional support for ratepayers losing RHL relief is provided through our supporting small business scheme, which also helps those losing small business rates relief or rural rate relief at revaluation. We continue to work with the sector and support them.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures addressing the increased costs mentioned by Iain Brown and Charlie Cockaday were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Following Alison Griffiths' question, Rebecca Paul noted the high number of closures and ongoing challenges faced by pubs.
The Minister's response does not adequately reflect the seriousness of the situation facing pubs in Bognor Regis and Littlehampton and across the country. With eight pubs closing each week and increased costs and taxes, it is clear that business rates are going up rather than down as claimed. Will she take meaningful action to help these businesses or continue to say they are supporting them?
Without our support, pubs would face a 45% increase in total bills next year. We have reduced this to just 4%. The majority will have their bills capped at £800, 5%, or 15% next year. In addition, we have established the licensing taskforce to cut red tape and remove growth barriers.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures addressing increased costs were not detailed beyond general statements about caps on bills.
Response accuracy