Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Night-time Economy 2024-10-31

2024-10-31

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Paul Kohler Lib Dem
Wimbledon
▸ Context
The hospitality industry, a key part of the night-time economy, is facing significant challenges including post-Brexit labour shortages and high business rates.
What steps are being taken to support the night-time economy given its critical role in local economies and communities, especially with ongoing issues such as labour shortages, debt from covid, inflation, and increased national insurance costs?
Gareth Thomas
Businesses are advised to look at measures taken in yesterday's Budget, including long-term reforms of business rates from 2026-27. For example, an average pub with a rateable value of almost £17,000 will save over £3,300 next year.
▸ Assessment & feedback
National insurance costs and doubling of business rates were not addressed specifically.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Paul Kohler Lib Dem
Wimbledon
▸ Context
The hospitality industry is struggling due to labour shortages, debt from the pandemic, and high business rates.
What advice would the Minister give to the hospitality industry and businesses facing a hike in national insurance costs and an increase in last year's business rates?
Gareth Thomas
Businesses are advised to look at measures taken in yesterday's Budget, including long-term reforms of business rates from 2026-27. For example, an average pub with a rateable value of almost £17,000 will save over £3,300 next year.
▸ Assessment & feedback
National insurance costs were not addressed specifically.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Rachael Maskell Lab Co-op
York Central
▸ Context
Employers in traditional pubs are struggling due to the non-functioning pubs code and concerns about antisocial behaviour.
Will the Minister meet me and the Campaign for Pubs to discuss how we can improve things for those businesses facing challenges with the pubs code and rising crime?
Gareth Thomas
The Minister will be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss measures taken in the Budget aimed at cracking down on antisocial behaviour, which is a concern for pubs.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Meeting specifics were not committed to fully.
Response accuracy