Non-domestic rating and the uniform business rate

This briefing paper provides a review of the theory and evidence relating to the impact of rates on economic activity and a critical assessment of the Government's policy response. In particular it looks at the implications for local businesses and local authorities. Whilst the precise impacts will depend on a wide variety of measures to cushion the effects of the changeover from locally determined to nationally set business rates, it can be shown that they could be severe in particular localities and business sectors.