Ministers could give billions raised by business rates to England’s regions
📰 The Guardian · 📅 Jun 14, 2026, 03:00 PM · 🌐 theguardian.com
AI Summary & Analysis
What happened?
Ministers are considering devolving billions of pounds in business rates revenue to English regional mayors as part of a planned overhaul of the English tax system that would expand local governance powers over justice, health and education.
Why does this event matter?
This shift would transfer significant tax revenue allocation and public service policy authority from central government to local elected regional leaders, altering the distribution and management of funds for local services across England.
Exclusive: devolving tax is part of plans to give local areas more power in areas including justice, health and education Ministers are considering handing over billions of pounds raised by business rates to regional mayors as part of one of the biggest shake-ups of the English tax system in recent