Paul Walsh, the Irish Opportunist

I was asked by the FT to comment on the UK Government’s decision to increase business rates by 5% this morning. I’ve yet to do so because I’ve just learned about it myself.

Refusing to scrap the rise that’s 50 times the current level of inflation, will save the Government £1billion. This couldn’t possibly come at a worse time for business owners!

“Let’s push those close to the edge that bit further” is obviously the Government’s moto.

I launched a new events based startup last week and I’m launching an online marketplace for start-ups soon. I’m wondering if I should incorporate in a country that doesn’t try to rip us off.

I’m looking forward to hearing what Tom Watson has to say on the matter, as he asked what the Government should do to help small businesses on Twitter recently.