BPF ups ante on Government over rate relief

Extra pressure: retailers and landlords are losing out already if shops are empty

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The British Property Federation (BPF) has stepped up pressure on the Government over the controversial introduction in April of changes to the laws governing empty property relief.

It has launched an e-mail hotline to encourage businesses to come forward with examples of how they have been affected adversely by the laws, which came into effect on April 1.

BPF director of finance and investment Peter Cosmetatos said: "We need evidence to prove what a disastrous move this has been and that's why we've set up this hotline."

The BPF is lobbying the Government to reintroduce the 50 per cent relief that was removed in April, which it has the power to do as a temporary measure.

The BPF is urging businesses to e-mail info@emptyrates.com.

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