Overview
- Organisers Andy Lennox and James Fowler say about 50 pubs and restaurants have pledged to refuse service to Labour MPs, with 'No Labour MPs' stickers now visible in Dorset and other towns.
- The action responds to rateable value increases from last year’s revaluation that owners say will push bills higher even with a reduced multiplier.
- The Treasury cites a £4.3 billion package that caps most first-year increases and offers transitional relief to limit sudden jumps in costs.
- Trade body UK Hospitality warns an average pub’s business rates are set to rise 76% over three years, with owners reporting staffing cuts and strain on independents.
- Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes says he arranged a meeting between James Fowler and Chancellor Rachel Reeves at No. 11 and argues the boycott is counterproductive.