A survey reported by The Independent and the Belfast Telegraph says around one-third of businesses want business rates reduced. The findings point to growing financial strain on firms as costs continue to rise. The Independent adds that Scottish businesses are increasingly worried about their ability to survive, describing heightened concerns about maintaining operations under current cost pressures. While both outlets focus on the same overall demand for cuts to business rates, the coverage aligns on the scale of support for rate reductions and the broader context of affordability. The reporting does not provide further detail here on the survey size, methodology, or whether respondents link the rates directly to specific sectors or regions beyond the reference to Scottish businesses. Taken together, the articles suggest that business rate levels are a prominent policy concern for companies facing tighter margins, with many seeking relief to improve their outlook.