Freddie van Mierlo MP Welcomes Plans to Cut Business Rates for South Oxfordshire Pubs

Freddie van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame, has welcomed proposals from South Oxfordshire District Council to provide a 15% business rates discount for pubs across the district, helping support valued local businesses facing rising costs.

The plans, published today by the Liberal Democrat-led council, would see pubs receive a reduction in their business rates bills, recognising the vital role they play as community hubs and local employers. The proposal will be considered by the council's Cabinet at its meeting on 2 July.

The scheme has been made possible through the council's strong financial position, following years of careful management by the Liberal Democrat administration.

Cabinet Member for Finance, Cllr Pieter-Paul Barker, said:

“I am pleased to take this proposal forward to Cabinet for approval. Due to our careful financial management over many years at SODC, we can now afford to support our pubs at a time when their costs have risen sharply.”

Freddie van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame praised the initiative:

“Our rural pubs are important community hubs, and many have faced rising costs in recent years. It's fantastic that South Oxfordshire District Council is stepping up to provide this support. Liberal Democrats are making a difference where it matters most.”

“Well done to the council for bringing these proposals forward. At a time when many local businesses are under pressure, this is exactly the kind of targeted support that can help pubs continue serving their communities.”

The proposal follows calls from Liberal Democrats nationally for measures to reduce cost pressures on local businesses and support high streets and rural economies.