To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether her Department’s methodology for its annual calculation to adjust the business rate multiplier in line with the Retail Prices Index (RPI) the previous September allows for a reduction in the multiplier when RPI is negative; and if she will make a statement. (277350)

Calculation of the multiplier is determined by a formula set out in schedule 7 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988.

To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with which representative bodies her Department had discussions on the business rate deferral scheme (a) in the three months prior to and (b) following the announcement of the scheme. (277468)

Ministers and officials from the Department regularly meet representatives of the business community and local government to discuss business rates matters. Since the announcement of the business rates deferral scheme officials have in particular held discussions on its implementation and administration.

To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government when she plans next to review the rateable value limits in (a) England and (b) London; and if she will make a statement. (278075)

Various rateable value thresholds are used in the non-domestic rating system to target rate relief at smaller properties. We will consider all rateable value thresholds in light of the 2010 revaluation over the course of the rest of this year.