I HAVE made engaging with local businesses an early priority over the course of my first few months as the Lothian East constituency’s new MP.

Of course, many businesses have faced significant challenges over recent years with the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and the knock-on effects of the conflict in Ukraine.

However, it is reassuring that all the employers I have spoken to have been so positive about East Lothian as a place to do business. That bodes well for the future, given the range of economic development opportunities on the horizon, including the former Cockenzie Power Station site, Blindwells, Dunbar Business Park and the QMU Innovation Hub.

One important element of last month’s UK Budget for businesses south of the Border was the Chancellor’s announcement of plans to permanently cut business rates for retailers from 2026. Until then, 250,000 retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties will receive 40 per cent relief off their business rates bills up to £110,000 per business to help smooth the transition to the new system.

The Chancellor also confirmed plans for an increase in the rates for large distribution warehouses to level the playing field between high-street retailers and online giants.

The legislation to introduce these changes was published last week and welcomed by the Federation of Small Businesses, which commented: “It is extremely encouraging on rates to see ministers standing up for small firms in retail and hospitality, and taking long-term action.”

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has called on the Scottish Government to support Scotland’s high streets by matching the UK Government’s 40 per cent relief from its record block grant settlement. He has also urged wholesale reforms of non-domestic rates to strengthen communities and support economic growth, and ensure the big online retailers pay their fair share.

Businesses here in East Lothian and across Scotland need a long-term plan to reform rates so they better support local economies and jobs.