Chatham Debenhams closure - Liberal Democrats demand reform to protect High Street retailers
Medway sees the closure of Debenhams Chatham store this month, its loss having a huge impact on the look of the town centre. Nationally, Liberal Democrats are demanding reform to protect High Street retailers. Responding to news that Beales Department Store may have to call in administrators, Sarah Olney MP, Liberal Democrat Business Spokesperson, said: "We've seen Mothercare close its last branches, Debenhams shutting more outlets and now Beales announcing that they are at risk of collapse. Every closure will see people around the country face the bleak prospect of losing their jobs and livelihoods. "The internet age means shopping is changing. But that doesn't mean we should accept seeing our High Streets hollowed out. Too many online stores rake in profit but pay little or no tax, while High Street shops are saddled with costly business rates and exorbitant rents.
