Andrew Rosindell M.P. echoes the sentiments of small and medium-sized business owners in Romford who are demanding lower business rates. The Government must champion the causes and rectify the concerns of some of Britain's most hardworking individuals who are stimulating our economy in a time of great difficulty.
I would like the Chancellor of the Exchequer to know that high business rates are having a devastating effect on small and medium-sized businesses in historic market towns, such as Romford, that are large retail centres. As the Government are business friendly, will he please look at ways to reduce the burden of business rates on local businesses in constituencies like mine?
Andrew Rosindell M.P.
May I say what a pleasure it is to be asked a question by my hon. Friend? I think this is the first time it has happened since he has been back. There is no more formidable a champion for Romford. He speaks about business rates, and we have indeed been doing what we can to bring them down at every fiscal event.
The Rt Hon. Jeremy Hunt M.P., Chancellor of the Exchequer
