The British Retail Consortium has responded to the Scottish Government's announcement that the April uplift in business rates would be reversed through a 1.6% relief,
Helen Dickinson OBE, BRC's Chief Executive, said, “Tens of thousands of retailers face an uphill struggle as a result of coronavirus. Fewer store visits, lower demand for many goods, and the possibility of further restrictive public health measures, all threaten the survival of shops and jobs.
'As businesses are squeezed many run the risk of liquidity issues, further harming their ability to operate. It is essential that the Treasury goes much further than the limited efforts outlined in the budget. The first step should be to follow Scotland’s lead by reversing yet another rise in the business rates burden this April, but more will be needed.
'Prompt action could be the difference between survival and administration for some businesses, and with it, the jobs and shops that are essential to our communities around the UK.”