Companies deserve a much better deal’

UNIFORM business rates are being called by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) after calls from the Local Government Association to return rate-setting powers to local authorities. Last year, the FSB called on Sir Michael Lyons, whose inquiry into lo

UNIFORM business rates are being called by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) after calls from the Local Government Association to return rate-setting powers to local authorities.

Last year, the FSB called on Sir Michael Lyons, whose inquiry into local government funding reported in December, to keep business rates the preserve of central government so that small businesses are not disproportionately taxed.

The FSB claims that when business rates were controlled by local authorities, small businesses in some areas were seen as a soft target and faced massive rises.

The chairman of the FSB in Huntingdonshire, Malcolm Lyons said: "Small businesses are the life-blood of the country. They provide the employment and essential services for local people. Nationally, they generate over half of UK GDP, and employ more than 12 million people.

* SMALL companies with only one business premise could be entitled to partial relief from their rates.

If the property has a rateable value of up to £5,000, there could be 50 per cent off the rates bill, £10,000, can mean relief on a sliding scale, and under £15,000 can mean being charged a lower rate in the pound.

INFORMATION: Applications need to be in by January 31. Call 01480 388030 for a form and more details. You can also visit see www.mybusinessrates.gov.uk