THE MP for Aberconwy, Robin Millar, has urged the Welsh Government to match UK Government support to businesses in England that would have a hugely significant impact for many businesses across the region.

While unveiling his Budget in Parliament on Wednesday, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak MP, announced a 50 per cent discount on business rates for businesses in the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors.

But as the setting of business rates is devolved to the Welsh Government, businesses operating in those sectors in Wales will not be entitled to the discount.

Mr Millar has called on the Welsh Government to set a level playing field between businesses in Wales and England, and to ensure businesses in Wales are not disadvantaged by matching this discount once the current Welsh Government business rate support scheme comes to an end in April 2022.

He said: “Aberconwy is known around the world as a fantastic visitor destination, and I am very proud to represent so many outstanding attractions and high-quality venues here.

“Llandudno - the Queen of the Welsh resorts, Conwy Castle, Eryri itself, Zip World Fforest, food producers such as Gwinllan Conwy Vineyard, Baravelli’s chocolatiers in Conwy town and seemingly countless cafes, restaurants and hotels are all part of the superb visitor experience here in Aberconwy.

“Tourism and hospitality, along with retail, are the heart of our local economy.

“But they have suffered disproportionately throughout the forced closures and restrictions of the last 19 months.

“I welcome the Budget announcement by the UK government of a £2.8 billion increase to the Welsh Government’s block grant – the largest increase in the history of devolution.

“I now urge the Welsh Government to match the invaluable support available to businesses in England.

“It will help our businesses recover from the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, invest in skills and create jobs and I will work with colleagues in Westminster and the Senedd to secure this.”