The announcement from Local Government Minister John Healey came as the Government published its response to the Modernising Empty Properties Relief consultation which was carried out in the summer.

This brings businesses in administration into line with those in liquidation and people subject to bankruptcy proceedings who already benefit from the exemptions.

Mr Healey said:

"We are committed to the promotion of a rescue culture which provides opportunities for insolvent companies that have viable underlying businesses to be rescued wherever possible.

"A permanent exemption will remove any potential for decisions about whether to enter administration to be distorted by differences in rates liability."