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Prime minister Andy Burnham has promised a “culture shift” in how the UK does business ahead of meetings with entrepreneurs, big business bosses and local mayors in Downing Street.
During meetings at Number 10 with the chief executives of firms including HSBC, Morrisons and Shell as well as the founders of businesses including Starling Bank, Octopus Energy and Revolut, Burnham is expected to focus on what he says are benefits of his devolution plans including improving how infrastructure is built, attracting more investment and providing opportunities for local communities.
Speaking ahead of the events, Burnham said: “If we’re going to unlock this country’s full potential, we need a culture shift in how Britain does business.
“That means putting government firmly on the side of the people who take risks, start companies, create jobs and bring new ideas to life. It means ensuring ambition is rewarded, making it easier to start and grow a business, and giving people the confidence that if they have a great idea, they’ll get all the support they need to bring it to life.”
The meeting comes ahead of the Budget on 28 October and calls on chancellor John Healey to cut taxes and other business costs.
Experts say that Healey has limited room to increase borrowing and may need to raise taxes to stick to the government’s fiscal rules.
