BIRA awaits energy bill support announcement next week

BIRA awaits energy bill support announcement next week 

The British Independent Retailers Association has said it awaits the delayed announcement by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt next week in the House of Commons on the energy bill support.

The important decision by the government on energy support for businesses was delayed at the end of 2022 by ministers, which prompted the association last month to call for clarity as soon as possible.

However, BIRA, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, has said that while they are looking forward to hearing the decisions following Mr. Hunt's meeting with business leaders this week at the Treasury, retail groups were not included within these discussions.

BIRA CEO Andrew Goodacre said: "The Chancellor has spoken to key business groups but not retail groups who are such an important part of the UK economy.  

"However, it appears that next week’s announcement will confirm continued support for businesses which we hope does in fact include independent retailers, even if it is at a lower level.

"I welcome this move and I would urge the government to commit to a further review next October when we will be approaching the winter period and a higher usage period, especially if energy prices have risen in that time," he added.

Currently, wholesale gas and electricity prices have been fixed for firms from October until March 2023, but the help is under review due to the cost.

In October, ministers had promised to make an announcement before the end of 2022, but this was delayed until the start of 2023.