Jacqueline Wilson Joins Authors in Plea for Bookshop Tax Relief

Children's author Jacqueline Wilson has added her voice to a chorus of literary figures calling for support for independent bookshops facing significant tax burdens. Wilson, known for her popular "The Story of Tracy Beaker" series, has urged Andy Burnham to extend the business rates relief he has provided to pubs and bars to the struggling book retail sector.

Wilson's backing comes as part of a broader campaign organized by the Booksellers Association, which more than 200 independent bookshops have joined. Authors such as Joanne Harris, Sir Philip Pullman, and children's laureate Patrice Lawrence are also supporting the initiative. They argue that rising business rates could lead to the closure of many independent bookstores and worsen a decline in reading among young people.

Burnham, who has a degree in English literature, previously granted pubs and live music venues a 20 percent discount on their business rates. He has indicated a willingness to address business rates further ahead of the upcoming budget on October 28, offering a glimmer of hope for affected businesses. However, some businesses have expressed concern, recalling promises of support prior to the last budget that did not materialize as expected, leaving them with increased rates.

Independent bookshops in England and Wales are projected to face an average annual increase of £4,563 in their business rates by 2030. The Booksellers Association highlights that, unlike many other retailers, bookshops typically adhere to the printed retail prices of books, limiting their ability to absorb rising costs by adjusting prices. Wilson stated that many bookshops are "already struggling to pay their bills" and fully supports reforms to business rates.

Meryl Halls, managing director of the Booksellers Association, emphasized the multifaceted value of bookshops. She noted that they "create value beyond the transactional" by fostering community connections and contributing to the vibrancy of high streets. Authors involved in the campaign also pointed to the critical role bookshops play in combating a decline in recreational reading among 8 to 18-year-olds, which has reached its lowest point on record.