Written question asked by Ian Cawsey (Labour) on Wednesday, 18 March 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 20 March 2009. It was answered by John Healey (Labour) on Thursday, 26 March 2009 on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Non-domestic Rates: Small Businesses

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if she will assess the merits of making the small business rate relief scheme automatic.

Answer: In light of the economic downturn, the Government are sympathetic to the aim of helping smaller businesses, however, without the application it would be difficult for the local authority to establish whether a ratepayer occupies more than one property. This is a condition of entitlement to the small business rate relief scheme, particularly if that property is located outside of the billing area in which relief is being claimed. Those ratepayers certifying that they meet the given criteria do receive the relief.

Secondary information