Town Hall’s hands are tied on business rates

• YOUR report (‘They’re happy to shelve bookshops’, January 14) left the impression that Camden council sets business rates.
You reported booksellers saying that  the Town Hall “couldn’t care less” and that “rate increases set to come in force in March are likely to cripple some businesses”.
However, it is a government quango – the Valuation Office Agency – that works out the rates every trader in the country has to pay. There is no consultation with communities, and little chance to challenge their edicts.
This quango wants Camden businesses to pay an average of 8 per cent more, and over 250 traders face bills going up by 25 per cent or more. This is out of all proportion to the businesses’ takings, or even the market value of their properties.
Camden Council should be responsible, then it could be held accountable for whether or not it is helping businesses. At present, its hands are tied.
LEE BAKER
Regent Square, WC1