The Government announced plans tonight to cut the business rates burden on small stores and post offices in rural Wales.
Welsh Secretary William Hague launched a six-week consultation paper for the new rate relief scheme which mirrors proposals announced for England last week.
Under Government plans, certain small general stores and post offices in villages would be entitled to at least 50% relief on their business rates.
Councils will able to top this up to 100% relief and also grant relief to other rural shops and businesses which are of benefit to the community.
Mr Hague said in a Commons written reply: “The proposals will provide significant help to the small general stores and post offices which are a feature of village life and provide an invaluable service to local people.”
He added: “They will also gove local authorities discretion to reduce other rural business rates, helping to safeguard rural communities and preserve the fabric of village life.”
PA News (Parliament) 13/05/96
