Mr. Vincent Jennings:

The problem is also the whole valuation process, as it is based on the notional rental value of the business. In this crisis, there are very few entrepreneurs who will be willing to buy or rent a property. In the retail sector, we also compete with online retailers but this is never factored in.

The problem is twofold. First, the Valuation Office is being unrealistic and hitting people in fuel retail, namely, petrol forecourts over and above the already disproportionate hit being taken by retail. Second, it is left to businesses and others to supply finance to local authorities because local councillors refuse to look at the property tax. We have no problem with shouldering the burden, given that we also benefit, but not disproportionately. Local rates are a problem. They are an expense to us and are done unfairly.