In his first week as Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a 20 per cent reduction in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April. The Government says the new business rate cuts will benefit nearly 32,000 pubs, clubs and live music venues, saving the typical pub an estimated £1,100 in the next financial year, providing much-needed certainty for businesses looking to invest, grow and create jobs. Mr Burnham said: “For too long, governments have stood by while cherished venues have disappeared from our local high streets. I said I would protect pubs and local high streets – the beating heart of our communities – and that’s what we will do. “This cut to business rates is a welcome boost that will help businesses weather rising costs, protect jobs and continue investing in the places that keep our communities alive.”