VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Sports: Business Rates

Asked by Alison GriffithsConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 14 April 2026UIN 124035

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department has made an assessment of the administrative burden placed on volunteer-led sports clubs and community sports facilities by annual reapplication requirements for discretionary business rates relief.

Answered by Alison McGovern

The administration of business rates, including billing, enforcement and decisions on the award of relief is the responsibility of local government, having regard to the relevant legislation or, where applicable, guidance published by central government.

Local authorities are responsible for deciding any application process for the locally funded discretionary rate relief schemes they administer.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim