UKHospitality calls on Tory government to honour business rates pledge

UKHospitality has said the Conservative election triumph is the beginning of the end of uncertainty for the industry, but called on the government to honour its campaign promise to cut business rates.

After more than a year of Brexit impasse in Parliament the Conservatives secured a 38-seat majority in yesterday’s General Election.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “A majority means that we begin to draw a line under the uncertainty we have felt over the last few years. The priority for this government will be to secure the best Brexit possible, and the sooner it does that the sooner it needs to fulfil its election promises to business.

“We want to see the promised reduction in business rates delivered at the earliest opportunity. The new government must also support business in delivering employment and an increase in skills and opportunities across the board.”

The sector is a major contributor to the UK economy, employing 2.9 million people and generating £130bn in economic activity, while paying £38bn in tax.