“We’re pleased that the government wishes to provide extra support for pubs, clubs and live music venues. But it’s important to acknowledge other vital parts of our high streets, such as cafes and restaurants, are also struggling with the cost of doing business, especially due to the increase in employer’s NIC.
“The input we’ve received from our members highlights that businesses in all sectors and parts of the country have been struggling with the cost and complexity of meeting their tax obligations. To help reduce this burden on businesses, we encourage the government to be more ambitious in reforming business rates to incentivise growth, improve fairness and not penalising investment - which the current system does. For example, moving to a more agile system could prevent the three-yearly shock that businesses of all sectors face when revaluations take place.”
ENDS
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Chartered accountants are talented, ethical and committed professionals. ICAEW represents more than 211,600 members and students around the world. 81 of the top 100 global brands employ ICAEW Chartered Accountants.* 82% of FTSE 100 companies have an ICAEW member on their board.
Founded in 1880, ICAEW has a long history of serving the public interest and we continue to work with governments, regulators and business leaders globally. And, as a world-leading improvement regulator, we supervise and monitor more than 11,500 firms, holding them, and all ICAEW members and students, to the highest standards of professional competency and conduct.
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ICAEW is a founding member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW), a global family that connects over 1.8m chartered accountants and students in more than 190 countries. Together, we support, develop and promote the role of chartered accountants as trusted business leaders, difference makers and advisers.
We believe that chartered accountancy can be a force for positive change. By sharing our insight, expertise and understanding we can help to create sustainable economies and a better future for all.
* includes parent companies. Source: ICAEW member data March 2026, Interbrand, Best Global Brands 2025.
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