600 landlords urge Chancellor: Please give us some cheer

PUB landlords hit by soaring costs have pleaded with Rachel Reeves for a cut in their business rate bills in this autumn’s Budget.

- By Steph Spyro Deputy Political Editor

They say an average reduction of £10,000 a year would “recognise the unique economic and social value pubs bring to communities across the UK” and “provide immediate relief”.

The demand was put in an open letter to the Chancellor from the landlords of 613 locals owned by Greene King.

The chain's chief executive, Nick Mackenzie, added: “Business rates are one of the biggest barriers to growth in the pub sector, placing a disproportionate burden on businesses of all sizes.”