The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is asking the Government to reveal its decision on business rates relief before the Budget on 3 March.

Bira wants the Chancellor to extend the business rates holiday for another year – and do so immediately, giving independent retailers as much notice as possible to plan their finances.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to outline his ‘road map’ to recovery from national lockdown conditions on Monday 22 February 2021. Bira would like the business rates decision to be made clear then.

Last year saw the announcement of a business rates holiday to support retailers through the pandemic. However, the relief is due to expire on 31 March 2021.

Bira’s CEO Andrew Goodacre, says; “We need the announcement on business rates as soon as possible – and not wait until the Budget.

“Scotland has made its decision to extend rates relief for retailers for another year and England must follow suit. The sooner retailers know, the sooner they can plan accordingly. It is about data, not dates.”

For further information on Bira, please click here.