Andy Burnham reduces business rates for pubs and music venues

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a 20 percent cut in business rates for pubs, clubs, and live music venues last week. The change will take effect in April 2027. Burnham made the announcement in his first week as prime minister. The discount will apply to nearly 32,000 hospitality businesses across England. A typical pub will save around £1,100 each year. Very large live music venues will not receive the discount. The policy will cost the government £100 million annually. Some in the industry are disappointed because they had called for a 50 percent reduction in sales tax. Major pub companies such as J D Wetherspoon and Marston's are among the businesses that will benefit.