BUSINESSES and residents of Thurrock will both benefit from measures taken in the Chancellor’s autumn statement say the Thurrock Conservatives.
As well as investment for the Dartford Crossing and a rise in the tax-free allowance, the Autumn Statement contains further good news for Thurrock’s small businesses and council tax payers.
Small business rate relief will continue to be doubled for another year, meaning many businesses will not pay any business rates until 2014. Additionally, the Government is extending the council tax freeze offer, which Thurrock has taken out in the previous two years.
Welcoming the under-reported good news, Conservative finance spokesman Cllr Barry Johnson said “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, from our corner shops and cafes to specialist retailers on our high streets. After a tough few years for retailers of all sizes, I am delighted that small business rate relief is being extended. It costs the Government very little, but can be the difference between life and death for some businesses.
“I was also pleased to hear that the Government is once again offering councils an incentive to freeze council tax. It will be down to Labour whether to accept this freeze, but anything that makes it less likely that hard pressed residents will be hit in the pocket is good news. The Government is also planning to reduce the rate at which council tax can be increased without a local referendum to 2%. This should mean no more inflation-busting tax rises, for which Labour has something of a reputation.
“These measures are good for businesses and good for residents, and I am sure they will be well received by all.”
