A coalition of 120 prominent business figures, including JD Sports’ chairman Andy Higginson, is supporting Labour in the forthcoming general election.
- The group has expressed concerns over a decade of economic stagnation and instability in the UK economy.
- Key signatories of the open letter include leaders from major companies like Heathrow, Iceland Foods, and Aston Martin.
- The letter suggests that Labour has reformed and is ready to work with businesses to unlock the UK’s economic potential.
- The announcement follows the Prime Minister’s declaration of a general election set for 4 July.
An influential group of business leaders has publicly declared their support for the Labour Party as the United Kingdom approaches a general election. Among these leaders is Andy Higginson, chairman of JD Sports Fashion, who, alongside 119 other executives, signed an open letter published in The Times, emphasising the need for political change in the UK.
The letter articulates a shared frustration over the prolonged economic instability and stagnation that has plagued the nation for the past decade. It argues that instability and a lack of a long-term strategic focus have hindered the UK from achieving its full economic potential. This call for change is not just about political preference; it is a plea for revitalisation of the country’s economic landscape.
Signatories of the letter represent some of the most significant players in the business realm, including Pete Bowyer, director of the Association of International Retail, John Holland-Kaye, the former CEO of Heathrow Airport, Richard Walker, executive chairman of Iceland Foods, and Andy Palmer, former CEO of Aston Martin, among others. Their collective stance underscores the industry’s desire for political stability and a consistent economic strategy moving forward.
The business leaders advocate for Labour, suggesting that the party has demonstrated a willingness to evolve and collaborate with the business community to propel the UK’s economy forward. They believe that granting Labour the opportunity to govern could lead to essential changes needed to overcome the nation’s economic challenges.
This endorsement comes in the wake of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s announcement that a general election will occur on 4 July, a development which puts even more spotlight on economic policies and business concerns as key issues in the electoral debate.
The endorsement of Labour by these business leaders highlights the pressing need for economic revitalisation and political stability in the UK.
