The UK government faces a growing risk of losing corporate trust following last month’s budget, warned Rupert Soames, chair of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), at the organization’s annual conference.
Soames cautioned that businesses were blindsided by rising employment costs and could sour on the Labour government within the next six to 12 months unless decisive action is taken.
Key Concerns
- Higher Employment Costs:
- The budget introduced £40 billion (US$50 billion) in new taxes, with much of it tied to an increase in national insurance, a payroll levy.
- Impact on Trust:
- Soames emphasized that while trust isn't entirely lost, Labour has “ground to regain” to restore corporate confidence.
- “That jelly, once it sets, will be really hard to shift,” he warned.
Business Sentiment
- Investment Concerns: Salman Amin, CEO of Pladis Foods Ltd (maker of McVitie’s and Jacob’s crackers), said the UK is becoming a less attractive place for investment, citing unclear incentives for businesses.
- ‘Damage Control’ Mode:
- A CBI survey revealed nearly half of British companies plan to cut jobs following the tax-hiking budget.
Calls for Action
Soames suggested that policy changes in areas like the employment bill, apprenticeship levy, and rates reform could help offset the disappointment caused by tax increases.
- Encouragement, Not Force: He noted that governments cannot mandate business growth but can “cajole and encourage” it.
Opposition Engagement
- Kemi Badenoch, opposition leader, also addressed the conference, as businesses looked for clarity and reassurance amidst growing concerns.
The Bigger Picture
The UK government’s ability to recover business confidence is critical for long-term investment and growth. However, with trust on shaky ground, the Labour government must act swiftly to prevent permanent damage to its relationship with the corporate sector.
“The case for investment in Britain must be made clearer,” said Amin, reflecting the sentiment of many business leaders.
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