Oral Answers to Questions

Catherine West Excerpts

Tuesday 27th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Dan Tomlinson]

I have got the idea, Mr Speaker!

The key thing to note here is that there is a significant difference between the change in the rateable value and the change in the business rates. This year, we have stepped in to cap the increases for bills at £800 for those coming into the system for the first time. For most high street businesses, the increase will be 15%, while the very largest will see increases of 30%. Those are the steps we have taken. When the Liberal Democrats were in government, they chose to increase VAT on businesses up and down the country.

[Catherine West (Hornsey and Friern Barnet) (Lab)]

I wish you a speedy recovery, Mr Speaker.

Will the Minister say something about music recording studios, such as the Church Studios, where Annie Lennox recorded “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”? Could he give me a sweet dream this evening and tell me that my music recording studio is going to be fine?

[Dan Tomlinson]

I am very fond of my constituency neighbour, who has the privilege of sharing a part of Barnet with me. There will be news this afternoon—I am just trying to find my words, Mr Speaker.