Stop complaining about the Budget, says Labour-supporting supermarket boss


Stop complaining about the Budget, says Labour-supporting supermarket boss

09 December 2024 7:00am GMT The Labour-backing chief of Iceland has said companies should stop “wallowing” and “complaining” about the Chancellor’s tax raid. Richard Walker, a former Tory donor who changed allegiance last January, said: “This isn’t a time for businesses to wallow… The Government isn’t going to change its mind. It was a tough Budget, but we adapt.” Mr Walker urged his rivals to focus on influencing what the Government does next rather than seeking to undo the Budget. He said: “There’s been a lot of complaining from business. But, actually what matters much more is how the Government invests for the future and looks at long-term solutions, like skills development, industrial strategy, the business rates overhaul. How they spend all the money they are raising is more important.” The comments will be seen as a rare show of support from a senior business chief for Rachel Reeves, who has faced weeks of criticism over the Budget. Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons, Lidl and Marks & Spencer have been among those warning over the risks from higher costs.