Business

The Gateway landlord Martin O’Sullivan raises a glass with Reading East MP Rob Wilson
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Boozers can slash tax bill

December 30, 2008

The Reading East MP dropped in for a pint as he warned pubs they are being denied business rate cuts by the Government.

Landlords could be paying thousands of pounds over the odds in tax, but Rob Wilson said they are being kept in the dark by tax inspectors.

Until recently the inspectors refused to give any business rate reduction for the loss of custom due to the smoking ban but their latest guidance now admits the ban represents a “material change”.

Pubs could use this to make a claim for a lower rateable value and cut their yearly rates bill.

Mr Wilson said: “Pubs are a vital part of our social fabric and community life.

“Small everyday pubs are suffering from the onslaught of higher beer taxes, an economy in recession, supermarkets selling alcohol below cost price and the public smoking ban.

“Whatever people’s views on the smoking ban, which I supported, it has been a significant change that has affected many pubs. The Government’s tax inspectors have admitted pubs may be eligible for refunds on their business rates, but pub owners are being intentionally kept in the dark on this u-turn.”

Landlord of The Gateway in Greyfriars Road Martin O’Sullivan who was visited by the MP, thanked him for his help on behalf of landlords across the town.

He added: “Rob and the Conservatives have shown a real interest in the trade and we are all delighted they are doing as much as they can to help keep all local pubs going.”

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