Written question WQ99975
- Asked by
- Joshua KimReform
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Minister for Finance
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 8 days
Question
What assessment has the Cabinet Minister made of the impact of non-domestic rates on the financial sustainability of post office branches, particularly small and rural branches?
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.