Chancellor Rachel Reeves has signalled a fresh push to support small businesses by reforming business rates, pledging to remove the “cliff edges” that discourage firms from expanding. At present, companies lose all access to small business rates relief when opening a second property, a rule widely criticised for stifling growth and investment. Speaking today, Reeves said the government’s top priority was delivering growth and that small businesses were central to that ambition. “Our economy isn’t broken, but it does feel stuck,” she noted. The reforms form part of Labour’s broader commitment to revitalising Britain’s high streets and ensuring that economic growth “works for, and rewards, working people”.