Business rate cuts could create 'vibrant high streets'

The Welsh government is considering cutting business rates for smaller retail shops to help them compete with online retailers and to create "more vibrant high streets".

A consultation has been announced on cutting rates for retail shops paying less than £51,000 in business rates, which it estimated will affect about 13,000 properties.

Business rates are a tax on non-domestic properties including shops, pubs and offices.

The Welsh Retail Consortium described the proposals as a "mixed bag" for retailers.