Angela Rayner has called on the Government to appoint a dedicated minister for the night-time economy, warning that hospitality venues face a 'triple whammy' of rising costs from business rates, VAT, and minimum wage hikes. The former Deputy Prime Minister made the demand at an event in Liverpool, saying: 'We need to do better. We need to recognise the value of this industry, economically, culturally, socially.'
Her comments come after Chancellor Rachel Reeves offered a 15% discount on business rates for pubs and live music venues, following a backlash from landlords over the Budget decision to slash a pandemic-era discount. The Treasury said landlords could save an additional £1,650 in 2026/27, but there have been calls to extend the relief more widely across the hospitality sector.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham backed Rayner's call, arguing for a lower VAT rate consistent with Europe and a permanent lower business rates regime for hospitality. He said: 'I know pubs have got their business rates exemption but it should be broader than that, I think it should be all hospitality venues because you want that mixed economy as well.'
Rayner, who spearheaded an overhaul of workers' rights before quitting over her tax affairs, urged the Government to take a 'permissive approach' to licensing and to show urgency in supporting the sector. She added: 'Our high streets will only be saved by looking at the hospitality sector... it's the hospitality sector and the night-time economy that is really breathing life back into our communities.'
The Mirror has been championing the industry's cause with its Your Pub Needs You campaign.
