The latest furore over business rates has certainly hit home. Even the Chancellor in his Autumn Statement has taken on board the pain retailers in the high street are feeling.
Wander through any town centre and you will be struck by the preponderance of charity shops and retail squatters. Quite often shops simply can't afford the business rates despite being able to handle the rent.
The reason charity shops pop up with ease is the 80 per cent tax relief they enjoy so it got me thinking.
It occurred to me that with VAO launching its big give and with opticians being squeezed perhaps there is a way forward. VAO Optometrists in the high street.
Surely there is a smart accountant who could devise a scheme and company structure whereby an optical practice, wishing to help VAO, could operate an optical testing and retail operation for the benefit of VAO while itself benefitting from VAO's tax status.
Answers in a brown envelope please.
In the meantime anyone wishing to help VAO should go to the big give.