• THE significant increase in business rates which will come into effect in April will have a disastrous impact on the 16,570 small and medium-sized enterprises in Islington, with the likelihood that some will be forced to close.

This really is a reckless move by the government. By not taking into account the unique reality smaller businesses in London face they risk causing real damage.

They are the lifeblood of our economy in Islington, making up more than 99.4 per cent of the businesses that operate here. We are talking about our cafés and corner shops – the very character of our community. They shouldn’t be penalised for operating in London as opposed to other parts of the country.

I will be calling on the Chancellor to review these changes ahead of next month’s budget and to increase the number of small businesses who can claim rate relief. The last thing we want to see is businesses forced to close.

JENNETTE ARNOLD
Hackney, Islington and Waltham Forest London Assembly Labour member