Government money will help businesses and families hit be this week’s violence

The government has pledged £30m to help communities and businesses hit by this week’s riots.

Communities secretary Eric Pickles this morning announced a £10m recovery fund to help councils clear debris and make repairs to streets and property.

The recovery fund is also aimed at providing council tax discounts to people with damaged homes.

A further £20m has been available to businesses affected by the rioting. The High Street Support Scheme will be distributed by councils and will reduce business rates, pay for building repairs and encourage customers back to affected areas.

Councils will distribute the money primarily through reduced business rates and building repairs.

Pickles announced that seriously damaged homes and businesses will not be liable for council tax or business rates and said the government would fund emergency accommodation for families left homeless by the trouble.

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