Non-Domestic Rating (Multipliers and Private Schools) Bill - Second Reading

Part of the debate – in the House of Lords at 8:03 pm on 29 January 2025.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Baroness Taylor of Stevenage Baroness Taylor of Stevenage Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government), Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip) 8:03, 29 January 2025

I hear the noble Lord’s remarks, and of course I will take that back. I and, I am sure, my noble friend Lord Khan will be happy to undertake any further engagement that noble Lords wish to have before we go into Committee.

The two key points seem to be that this was not a general review of business rates, which we know it is not—a further, wider review of business rates is going on—and the clarification of the VOA valuations, which will set out what categories properties over and under £500,000 will come into. Of course, we will do our best to clarify any further questions that noble Lords have as soon as we can.

I thank all noble Lords who contributed to the debate. This is our first step on the road to transform the business rates system. We want to provide certainty and support to our high streets by enabling the delivery of a permanent tax cut that is sustainable and levels the playing field between the high street and the online giants. It will also help break down barriers to opportunity and support all parents to achieve their aspirations for their children. All parents have aspirations for their children, and it is right that we do our best to support them in delivering and achieving them by raising additional revenue to support the more than 90% of children who attend a state school.

Bill read a second time and committed to a Grand Committee.

Second Reading

The Second Reading is the most important stage for a Bill. It is when the main purpose of a Bill is discussed and voted on. If the Bill passes it moves on to the Committee Stage. Further information can be obtained from factsheet L1 on the UK Parliament website.