Context
The MP noted that local businesses like Camerons Brewery are crucial to the economy of Hartlepool. He highlighted a specific case study of Lee and Claire Dexter who run the Marine hotel, facing significant business rates rises unrelated to property value increase.
Question
What steps his Department is taking to support the hospitality sector in Hartlepool? The MP asked for help for businesses like the Marine hotel which has seen their business rates rise significantly despite no change in rateable value. He welcomed recent pub support measures but sought a meeting to address the failure of the business rates system for hotels and wider hospitality.
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Kate Dearden)
The Minister thanked the MP for his advocacy on behalf of local businesses such as Camerons Brewery. She detailed support measures including permanently lower tax rates, £4.3 billion to shield ratepayers from bill increases, a 15% reduction in new business rates bills for pubs and live music venues, licensing and planning reforms, and a £10 million hospitality support fund. The Minister acknowledged concerns about hotel valuations and announced a review of the methodology used to value hotels for business rates purposes.
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