Retail NI Comment on Chancellors Statement

Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said:

“We welcome that the Government is to reverse the National Insurance increase which will provide some relief to local independent retailers who are struggling with the cost of business crisis.”

“Retail NI will engage with the Secretary of State for NI on how the Investment Zone proposals could apply to Northern Ireland, particularly in town and city centres that have high levels of dereliction and are in need of further support.”

”We are disappointed that no funding assistance from Treasury has been allocated to allow a business rates holiday to be introduced locally. If we are to stand any chance of saving local high street businesses and protecting jobs, it is vital that a rates holiday is urgently introduced.”

“Lowering VAT rates should also have been included in this statement, rather than focusing on stamp duty and corporation tax.”

“The UK Government needs to go a lot further in supporting our local high streets and we will continue to press for further measures.”