Rachel Reeves slammed by Midlands pub in scathing statementThe historic pub said patrons 'can kiss goodbye' to boozers 'unless something dramatically changes'View 2 Images The Golden Ball Inn said the government U-turn on business rates was an 'illusion' of good news (Image: Google Street View)A historic West Midlands pub said the government is 'quietly strangling' the industry. ‌Earlier this week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves made a U-turn on the Autumn Budget which resulted in Labour MPs banned by pub landlords, including Jeremy Clarkson. ‌With concern over a removal of business rates relief, The Treasury confirmed pubs and music venues would get 15 per cent off business rates bills from April 1. ‌View 2 Images Rachel Reeves announced a 15 per cent discount on pub business rates this week (Image: PA)There was no mention of a VAT reduction this week as the business rates U-turn received a mixed reaction in the pub trade. "Many of you are under the illusion that the revised business rates announced this week was good news.