Andy Burnham was urged to use the Budget to deliver “real reform” of business rates after announcing a cut for pubs.
Ros Morgan, chair of the Real Rates Reform Alliance, said: “It is encouraging that the new Prime Minister has recognised the damage business rates are doing to pubs, clubs and live music venues.
“But targeted support for a small number of sectors is not a substitute for fundamental reform. Every business that invests in physical premises, from retailers and manufacturers to offices, hotels, theatres and leisure businesses, is being held back by an outdated property tax that penalises investment, suppresses growth and puts jobs at risk.
“The Government has said this is only the start. It now needs to use the Budget to deliver real reform.
“What the UK needs is a hybrid business rate, with a modest levy on eligible online sales funding a cut of more than a third in business rates for businesses investing in bricks and mortar premises.
“That would spread the burden more fairly, unlock investment and growth, protect jobs and deliver the lasting reform that businesses and high streets across the country have been calling for.”