Will the Cabinet Secretary confirm whether the additional transitional relief fund is intended for small businesses or businesses of all sizes facing increased business rates bills?
I provided an update on the additional £10 million targeted relief for high street retailers in Plenary on 18 January. I will be introducing a specially targeted grant scheme similar to the previous Wales Retail Relief scheme. The relief will be administered by local authorities and will provide a flat-rate reduction in liability for eligible ratepayers. The full details of the scheme are being finalised with local authorities to ensure that the relief can be targeted at those most in need of support and easily and effectively administered. Legal considerations are also in hand to determine whether the relief can be applied directly to eligible ratepayers' bills. I will make a written statement providing Members with details of the scheme in due course.