§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many businesses will face rate rises of over 100 per cent. when the uniform business rate is introduced; and how many employ less than 250 employees.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerThe precise effect of the reforms to business rating cannot be assessed until the revaluation of non-domestic property is completed.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will introduce a two-tier uniform business rate in Wales to reduce the levy on the small business sector.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerNo. The transitional arrangements for non-domestic ratepayers which I am introducing provide for a maximum annual increase in real terms for small businesses of 15 per cent., compared to 20 per cent. for large businesses; and small businesses will be able to obtain any reductions to which they may be entitled more quickly than large businesses. It is estimated that 85 per cent. of Welsh properties will fall within the "small" category for these purposes.