According to Companies House and leading business analysis firms, the data shows a sharp acceleration in business failures since Labour came to power, marking one of the worst periods for British enterprise in decades.
From small high street shops and family-run manufacturers to larger firms in retail, logistics, and hospitality, closures have rippled across every region of the country.
Economists and industry leaders have pointed to a series of Labour policies that have created a hostile environment for businesses. Among the most frequently cited issues are:
- Rising taxes, including corporation tax increases and the imposition of VAT on private education and other sectors.
- Excessive regulation, including new compliance requirements, red tape for employers and centralised oversight schemes.
- Labour shortages, compounded by immigration policy confusion and disincentives to work.
- Falling consumer confidence, with shoppers tightening their belts in the face of economic uncertainty.
To make matters worse, businesses are
now bracing for a fresh financial blow from 1 April, when increased
National Insurance contributions for employers are set to take effect.
Under Labour’s revised fiscal rules, many firms will see a significant
rise in their employment costs – penalising those who hire and employ at
scale. Small and medium-sized businesses, already reeling from
inflation and reduced footfall, say this latest move could be the final
straw for thousands more enterprises....<<<Read More>>>...