Andy Burnham to cut tax for pubs, clubs and live music in England and make vape shops pay more – business live
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a 20% business rate cut for pubs, clubs, and live music venues in England, funded by increased taxes on vape shops and online marketplaces. The policy aims to support the night-time economy and address perceived unfair competition from online retailers.
Why it matters
Represents a significant shift in fiscal policy aimed at revitalizing local hospitality sectors while penalizing businesses deemed to have a negative community impact.
Andy Burnham has cut business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues by 20%, in the latest example of a flurry of policies since taking over as prime minister.
The cuts will cost about £100m a year, but will be partly funded by reviewing reliefs for “anti-social businesses”, with vape shops in particular singled out. 10 Downing Street said it will look at businesses that “do not make a positive contribution to local communities”.
The cut would save the typical pub an estimated £1,100 next year. 32,000 businesses will qualify – although the largest music venues will not benefit, with details due in the budget.
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