Hospitality businesses in Yorkshire have cautiously welcomed Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s planned 20% business-rates cut for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England. They say it offers limited financial relief after years of pressure from higher costs and weaker customer spending, but argue that wider support is needed to revive the sector.

The reduction, due from April, could save eligible firms about £1,100 next year, although cafes, restaurants, hotels and Scottish businesses are excluded. Operators said VAT cuts—particularly on food and hospitality—would be more significant, while hotel and restaurant owners warned that rising rates have already squeezed margins and cannot always be passed on to customers.