BUSINESS RATES

That this House acknowledges the tough trading and poor economic conditions faced by local businesses throughout the UK, in particular over the last two years; recalls that during this period business rates have risen by an average of 10 per cent, thereby adding considerable costs to local enterprises which have had to endure real challenges to survive; believes that the time has come for the Government to realise that without direct action many such enterprises will not survive another financial year; and calls on Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer to freeze business rates for the coming 12 month fiscal period.