Welsh Government will always take decisions in terms of what’s best for people in Wales and for businesses in Wales, but we have a generous approach to rates relief in Wales. Our average rateable value is different to that in England and it will be different to that in Scotland. So, it’s important that we take the decisions in terms of rate relief that are right for Wales and that do reflect our Welsh context.

Our enhanced scheme this year goes significantly further than in previous years. We provide support to over 15,000 retail businesses across the country. It’s fully funded by the Welsh Government and provides support of up to £2,500 towards non-domestic rate bills for retail properties with a rateable value of up to £50,000. The scheme reduces rates bills to zero for retail properties with a retail value of up to £9,100. So, it certainly is a generous offer, but we have to remember that non-domestic rates, alongside council tax, play a really important part in allowing our local authorities to continue providing the kind of services on which we all rely.