Philip Pullman and Maggie O'Farrell are among a group of prominent authors who have written to the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, urging him to reduce business rates on bookshops. The letter, signed by more than 100 writers, argues that bookshops are vital cultural hubs that are struggling under the financial burden of high rates.
Authors' Plea to the Mayor
The authors call on Khan to use his powers to offer relief on business rates, which they say are disproportionately high for independent bookshops compared to other retailers. They highlight that bookshops not only sell books but also host events, support local communities, and promote literacy.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The letter points to the closure of many independent bookshops in recent years, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of online retail. The authors argue that reducing business rates would help these shops survive and continue to contribute to the cultural life of the capital.
Among the signatories are well-known figures such as Philip Pullman, author of the 'His Dark Materials' trilogy, and Maggie O'Farrell, whose novel 'Hamnet' won the Women's Prize for Fiction. The letter was coordinated by the Booksellers Association, which has been campaigning for business rates reform.
Call for Action
The authors urge Khan to consider the long-term benefits of supporting bookshops, not just for the economy but for the social fabric of London. They suggest that a reduction in business rates could be a practical step towards ensuring the survival of these cherished institutions.
The letter concludes with a plea for the Mayor to take action before more bookshops are forced to close, emphasizing that the loss would be felt far beyond the retail sector.
