🛍️ High Street Retailers

• High Street Retail Challenges Discussed: The debate focused on the challenges faced by high street retailers across the UK, highlighting the need for government intervention to prevent the decline of traditional retail spaces.

• Need for Innovation: Mr Gregory Campbell emphasized that innovation is crucial for the survival of high streets, suggesting a shift towards better retail and support for local independent businesses.

• Support for Independent Retailers: Suggestions were made to support independent retailers, including initiatives like pop-up shops, reducing car parking charges and rates during peak shopping periods, and schemes like “Living Over The Shops” to utilize vacant spaces.

• Economic Impact: The retail sector’s significant contribution to the UK economy was noted, with 2.9 million jobs supported in 2023. The importance of a strong retail presence for community vitality and economic growth was underscored.

• Taxation Concerns: The disparity in VAT rates between the UK and Ireland was raised, with calls for adjustments to level the playing field for Northern Ireland’s retailers, particularly in the hospitality sector.

• Government Initiatives: The government’s efforts to support high street retailers were discussed, including measures like high street rental auctions and business growth services. The Chancellor’s budget commitment to not raise corporation tax and to permanently lower business rates was also mentioned.

• Crime and Security: The increase in retail crime, especially violent incidents against shop workers, was highlighted as a concern. The government’s response includes introducing a new offence for assault on a shop worker and measures to tackle theft.

• Post Office and Banking Access: The importance of maintaining post office services and the need for more banking hubs to support rural communities were raised, indicating the interconnectedness of these services with high street vitality.

• Criticism of Regional Policies: Criticism was directed at the Scottish Government for not passing on support to businesses, which could help revitalize high streets, and for mismanagement of finances.

• Community and Local Action: The role of local initiatives and partnerships between councils and businesses in enhancing town centres, such as improving aesthetics and supporting local events, was recognized as important for drawing people back to high streets.

The disagreement in the session was relatively low. The main focus of the debate was on the challenges faced by high street retailers and the need for government support and innovation. While there were different perspectives and suggestions on how to address the issue, the overall tone was collaborative and focused on finding solutions rather than deep disagreements.

Examples of disagreements or differing views include: - Imogen Walker’s speech criticizes the SNP Government for not passing on business relief support from the UK Government to Scottish retailers, suggesting a disagreement on the management of finances and support for businesses. This critique implies a disagreement between the UK Labour Government and the SNP Government in Scotland. - Mr. Campbell mentions the disadvantage faced by Northern Ireland retailers due to differing VAT rates between the UK and the Republic of Ireland, indicating a disagreement or concern over fiscal policy between regions.

However, these disagreements were not overtly contentious. Most interventions and speeches were supportive of the need for action and innovation, with Members from different parties agreeing on the importance of supporting high street retailers and suggesting various initiatives. The Minister’s response also acknowledged the concerns raised and outlined steps the Government is taking, indicating a willingness to engage with the issues despite not immediately resolving all points of contention.

Overall, the session was characterized more by a shared concern and various suggestions for improvement rather than strong disagreements.