I will raise the issue of the 9% VAT rate. It is important that the Government makes a decision on this as soon as possible. I emphasise how important it is to so many small businesses, especially in my constituency where tourism and hospitality make up a significant part of the economy. Many other services such as hairdressers also depend on this appropriate rate of VAT. I would no longer refer to it as a concession. It brings us in line with competing countries in Europe in the area of tourism and hospitality. I ask that a decision be made on this soon and that the decision be to retain the rate at 9%.

We plan to make a decision on this before the middle of this month in order for people in business to know where they stand for March and the spring. Two measures are in place for businesses at the moment that are valuable to them, namely the temporary business energy support scheme, TBESS, to help with energy costs and the 9% VAT rate. We need to work out what we can continue and what we cannot. The Deputy must bear in mind that none of that was budgeted for. There will be costs for anything we extend beyond the end of February. However, we acknowledge that businesses need ongoing support with their bills.