Business Rates

For ratepayers who face increases at the 2010 revaluation, we will introduce transitional arrangements to phase them in and consult during the summer about the shape of those arrangements, which will benefit businesses in 2010-11. The Government have recognised the problems that many businesses face. We are committed to doing all we can to help businesses through the testing times. We are providing targeted, short-term support to aid business cash flow. We will continue to support businesses through the difficult economic times, and I commend our amendment to he House. Question put (Standing Order No. 31(2)), That the original words stand part of the Question. The House proceeded to a Division.