Sir Julian Smith provides an update on his ongoing mission to support the growing pressures on small businesses, rural pubs and the hospitality sector in relation to business rates and recent tax changes.
Here are the actions taken and next steps towards fairer taxation and greater support for this sector across North Yorkshire.
Ongoing Support & Next Steps
I wanted to keep you updated on my recent work regarding the challenges facing pubs,
hospitality and small businesses across North Yorkshire.
On 5 January, I called on the Treasury to protect rural pubs in relation to business rates.
Recent tax changes in relation to agricultural and business property reliefs have caused
real stress, and we must ensure mistakes are not repeated.
You can view my question, and the Minister’s reply – here
I also submitted a written question to the Treasury, asking what steps they are taking to
review business rates and support North Yorkshire’s hospitality sector during this
difficult period.
You can read their response – here
I have contributed to pieces in The Telegraph outlining how current policies are harming
rural pubs and calling for immediate action to safeguard these vital community hubs.
You can read the full articles – here
Yesterday, I spoke in Parliament about the mounting pressures on pubs, farms, and
North Yorkshire’s rural life. I have urged ministers to act quickly to fix the valuations
issue and rethink policies that are hitting rural areas disproportionately.
You can watch this – here
Please be assured that I will keep making the case for fairer taxation and greater support
for pubs, hospitality and small businesses across North Yorkshire.
Yours sincerely,
Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE M
