Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Her Majesty's Government how many retail businesses that have traded throughout the COVID-19 pandemic have offered to repay any business rates relief they have received.

Several businesses have publicly announced their intention to return their business rates relief or otherwise entered discussions with the Government on this issue. The Government has been clear throughout the pandemic that businesses should use support appropriately, and it welcomes any decision to repay support where it is no longer needed. Any funds returned will support the continuing efforts to protect people’s jobs and incomes.