Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge has welcomed reports of an expected Government u-turn on business rate increases for pubs – but has called for VAT to be reduced. Kerridge, whose business portfolio includes acclaimed Marlow restaurants The Hand and Flowers and The Coach, previously spoke out over the impact higher business rates for pubs would have on his hospitality businesses. The Government had announced a £4.3billion support package to provide relief to those seeing increases in business rates due to the changes. But this month, it has been widely reported that the Government is expected to change its business rate plans for pubs. Following reports of a u-turn, Kerridge said: “Obviously, the government’s u-turn is hugely appreciated by the industry.

Source: Express January 23, 2026 06:02 UTC