Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Oral Answers to Questions

Virginia Crosbie Excerpts
Tuesday 6th February 2024

(3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Nigel Huddleston Portrait Nigel Huddleston
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No, I do not agree. The hon. Member should be aware that the OECD suggests that in the coming years we will be growing faster than France, Italy and Germany. Of course, the Government have a strong track record against our OECD friends over the last 14 years, and Scotland benefits from this economic growth.

Virginia Crosbie Portrait Virginia Crosbie (Ynys Môn) (Con)
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As in Scotland, business rates are devolved in Wales. With business rates relief set to fall from 75% to 40%, businesses in Wales will pay almost twice as much as in England. Does my hon. Friend agree that the Welsh Labour Government should be supporting local businesses such as the Kinmel Arms in Moelfre and not increasing the number of Senedd Members by a staggering 60%?

Nigel Huddleston Portrait Nigel Huddleston
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My hon. Friend puts it well. Of course, we have seen the considerable protections and support given in retail, hospitality and leisure business rates relief in England. That has not been extended to the same extent in Wales, and Scotland failed to extend it as well. She makes an important point.