Retailers are calling for a new system of business rates, labelling the current scheme outdated and unfair.

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) is tabling a series of alternatives that it says would encourage investment in property and lift the burden of payment from a falling group of businesses.

It says a new system could be a tax based on each business’ energy consumption, current tax burden and job creation.

Current rates are based on 2008 evaluations which pre-date the financial crash and over-estimate true rateable values.

BRC director general Helen Dickinson said: "These potential options would be good for the public, the economy and businesses small and large, while still providing significant tax revenues for the government."