The comments from North East Minister Nick Brown regarding possible changes to Empty Property Rates which were reported this morning are encouraging.
In short, while a wholesale reversal is unlikely, ministers are considering some reforms which would exempt particular areas where it is having a damaging impact, which would include some in the North East.
These comments tie in with what NECC has been told by MPs and Government sources, so it suggests there is a willingness in Government to look again at this punitive tax, which has been introduced at exactly the wrong time.
We're not going to count any chickens, as it will be the Chancellor's pre-Budget statement later this autumn before we hear for definite what might happen. But the actions of several North East MPs who have taken up this issue following contact from NECC and our members have to be applauded.
NECC has already briefed the Chancellor on the impact this tax is having on the North East and we will write to him again to reinforce that message before he makes his statement. Hopefully it will pay dividends.
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