Louise Hellem, Chief Economist of the Confederation of British Industry, dives into pressing business concerns following the Labour government's tax-increasing budget. She reveals that nearly half of British firms are preparing for job cuts, as the budget fails to attract investment. Hellem discusses the urgent need for a strong industrial strategy to bolster economic growth and navigates the challenges posed by rising payroll taxes. The conversation highlights the critical role of government support during times of economic uncertainty.
Nearly half of British businesses are planning job cuts due to the recent tax increases, indicating a significant decline in employment prospects.
The CBI survey highlights a worrying drop in business and consumer confidence, complicating the UK government's goal of stimulating economic growth.
Deep dives
Job Cuts and Economic Sentiment
Nearly half of British businesses are considering job cuts due to recent payroll tax increases, creating a challenging climate for employment in the UK. A survey conducted by the CBI revealed that many businesses are in damage control, with 60% indicating a slowdown in hiring plans and 50% reassessing their capital investment decisions. While there was optimism for a potential economic recovery, the recent budget measures have caused businesses to pause and reconsider their strategies. This reflects a significant decline in business confidence, which is essential for stimulating growth in the economy.
Impact of National Insurance Changes
The UK government's adjustments to national insurance contributions have had a profound impact on businesses, particularly those employing large workforces and workers in lower income brackets. The significant reduction in the threshold for starting these contributions has added to the financial burden for companies, compounded by ongoing pressures from the pandemic and rising energy costs. Although there were discussions between the CBI and the Treasury regarding these tax changes, many businesses feel that not enough measures were put in place to offset these additional costs. Consequently, the ability for businesses to invest and hire is now considerably constrained, raising concerns about the overall business landscape.
Uncertainty and Future Growth Challenges
There has been a notable decrease in business and consumer confidence following the election, contradicting earlier hopes for stability that the new government promised. In conversations with the Chancellor, it was emphasized that while the bad news needs to be acknowledged, there is a collective desire to move forward toward economic growth. However, the measures in the latest budget have made this more complicated, leading businesses to pull back on investment amidst fears of muted demand. The current scenario underscores the need for proactive government measures that bolster business confidence and facilitate growth, especially in light of persistent inflation and wavering consumer spending.
Firms across Britain are "in damage control" with nearly half planning to cut jobs after the Labour government's tax-rising budget, according to the boss of the country's most influential business lobby group. Around six in 10 businesses told the the Confederation of British Industry that the budget would not make the UK more attractive for investment, a key aim of the Labour government as it tries to boost growth. CBI Chief Economist Louise Hellem joined Bloomberg Radio's Stephen Carroll and Caroline Hepker to discuss business concerns.