Mandelson rejects business tax rise

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Chancellor Alistair Darling last year ordered large increases in business rates, based on a five per cent inflation rate last September. But by January inflation fell to 2.4 per cent and business groups believe lower prices should be reflected in rates.

Many companies say large increases in business rates would be disastrous and could mean the difference between staying solvent and being forced into bankruptcy.

Lord Mandelson's Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform has decided to reflect those fears and is privately backing calls for a fresh look at the rate. Lord Mandelson is keen to support business following criticism from the CBI over his failure to implement loan guarantee schemes speedily.

The battle between the Treasury and the business department follows a tougher line from Mr Darling over public spending and the need for savings across Whitehall.