Robert's lobbying of Government to introduce a relief fund for those worst affected by the rise in business rates. This has paid off, as West Oxfordshire District Council have been given a discretionary fund they can use to help ease the rate rise for many local businesses.
Robert said, "I am pleased to learn that local business Fineprint has saved thousands of pounds on their business rate payments through the relief scheme. This is an issue I campaigned for earlier this year, urging the government to offer relief to ease the effect of the increase in rates, to help our high-street businesses in our local economy who might be facing a significant business rate rise. I am pleased that the Government has listened and acted, and I support WODC as they roll out this assistance.
"As your MP and the Chair of the APPG for Small and Micro Businesses, I am aware of the difficulties many businesses are facing, and this is a great step in the right direction.
"So far more than 200 businesses have received relief totalling more than £250,000 after new rateable values were introduced in April but many have still not taken the opportunity to apply for discretionary rate relief awards worth up to £11,500.
"I therefore repeat my call for business owners who think they may be eligible for relief to contact the council on 01993 861070. More details can be found at: www.westoxon.gov.uk/businessrates.
"Central government has allocated £300m for local authorities to create local discretionary relief schemes to help those affected by the rates rise. Funding available for local authorities is expected to last four years but the amount will reduce each year."
