A coalition of prominent British authors, including Sir Philip Pullman and children's laureate Patrice Lawrence, has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Chancellor John Healey to offer financial support to independent bookshops facing significant tax burdens. The group is advocating for these businesses to be included in the business rates relief scheme that was recently extended to pubs and bars.
More than 200 independent bookshop owners have voiced concerns that escalating tax bills could lead to widespread closures, potentially worsening a decline in reading among young people. Sir Philip Pullman, author of the "His Dark Materials" trilogy, described independent booksellers as vital "lighthouses" that promote private reading and personal discovery, emphasizing their need for government protection.
Other authors supporting the campaign include Adam Kay, Maggie O'Farrell, and Florence Knapp. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Burnham and Chancellor Healey, bookshop owners highlighted their role in local communities, noting that 92% of bookshops host community events to support literacy. They argue that bookshops, like pubs, contribute significantly to high street vibrancy and cultural life.
Prime Minister Burnham has indicated a willingness to address business rates further, sparking hope for additional measures before the Chancellor's upcoming budget on October 28. However, some businesses remain wary after previous promises of assistance were followed by increased rates under the former Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
Independent bookshops in England and Wales are projected to face an average annual increase of £4,563 in their business rates by 2030. Unlike many other retailers, bookshops typically adhere to the printed recommended retail prices, limiting their ability to absorb rising costs by adjusting prices.
The authors and booksellers expressed frustration with the Treasury's claims of supporting the retail sector, seeking concrete measures for bookshops. They pointed to a documented crisis in reading for pleasure among 8- to 18-year-olds, noting that reading levels in this age group have reached their lowest point since records began in 2005. The Booksellers Association, which organized the letter, stated that while the government promotes reading, its policies could inadvertently lead to bookshop closures.
Supporters argue that a targeted tax discount would be cost-effective, offering substantial benefits to bookshops at a modest cost to the Treasury. The letter emphasized that a small financial intervention could be the deciding factor for a bookshop's ability to maintain staff, host events, support local schools, invest in inventory, or even remain open.