House of Commons · Westminster Hall
05 February 2025 · 12 other contributors · 4,028 words
Opened by Gregory Campbell DUP East Londonderry
Responding minister: Gareth Thomas
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Gregory Campbell raised concerns about high street retailers in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The hon. Member called for innovative solutions to support independent retailers, particularly during prime months like Christmas, suggesting a charging structure to benefit local businesses. He also mentioned the need for Government Ministers to introduce such measures to ensure that some benefit is accrued to local people.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The hon. Member highlighted the significant challenges facing high streets across the UK, citing Mary Portas's prediction that the future of the high street involves 'less retail but better retail.' He emphasised the critical state of high street retailing and warned that without dramatic intervention, the high street as we know it will die.
Asked about the progress on rolling out banking hubs to provide access to banking in rural communities.
The hon. Member questioned whether more could be done from Stormont regarding rates and support for vulnerable sectors such as retail and hospitality, highlighting the significant economic contribution of high streets in Belfast.
The hon. Member suggested that opportunities should be provided for more pop-up shops to start businesses in order to enhance the diversity of independent shops on the high street.
Discussed measures to support retailers and highlighted the importance of post offices for local communities.
Suggests changing guidance for high street rental auctions so it can apply to department stores as well. Asked to give way but was not given time due to limited remaining debate duration.
Discusses the impact of austerity, Brexit, and SNP's financial mismanagement on Scotland’s town centres, highlighting the need for support from both central and local governments to level the playing field.
The hon. Member agreed with his colleague's view and stressed the importance of adaptation, technology, innovation, and a support system for high street retailers to survive.
The hon. Member proposed collaborations between local councils, small businesses, and other stakeholders to improve town centres through initiatives like paving improvements to attract more people into the town centre. Requested an update on progress towards reforming business rates for retail businesses.
Inquired about the impact of VAT levels on retailers in Northern Ireland compared to the Irish Republic.
The hon. Gentleman mentioned local initiatives such as the 'Living Over The Shops' scheme and redevelopment projects that can support independent retailers in town centres.
He recommends independent shops and restaurants in his constituency and agrees that support from the Government is needed, but not just more of the same.
The hon. Member raised concerns about post office closures threatening the vitality of high streets, citing a specific example in Hampstead where the local post office is under threat due to years of under-investment.
Government Response
Gareth ThomasThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade
Apologises for timing issues and acknowledges contributions from MPs. Acknowledges challenges in supporting high streets but notes efforts such as business rates relief for retail sector. Discussed measures to support retailers, including tax roadmaps, back in business rate support scheme, high street rental auctions, and plans to introduce a new business growth service. Mentioned clamping down on retail crime through legislation.