Written question WQ99895
- Asked by
- Huw ThomasLabour
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Minister for Finance
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 9 days
Question
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to exempting post office branches from non-domestic rates, in light of two post office branches closing in Caerdydd Penarth, reflecting a wider pattern of closures across Wales, and recognising their economic and social value to the communities they serve?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Finance (Elin Jones)
There are existing arrangements in the non-domestic rates system which continue to support post offices in Wales. Enhanced Small Business Rates Relief applies to post offices, where those with a rateable value up to £9,000 receive full (100%) relief and those with a rateable value between £9,000 and £12,000 receive 50% relief.
In addition, a lower retail multiplier applies in Wales from 1 April 2026. The retail multiplier is intended to help re-balance the non-domestic rates system in favour of small to medium sized shops, through a 30% reduction in liability. This also applies to post offices, recognising the broader retail service they provide.