Chancellor John Healey signals a pro-business shift ahead of the budget, acknowledging that recent employment law, tax and regulation have put pressure on firms. He pledges to cut red tape for smaller enterprises.
01Summary
- 01Healey told the Times he wants to be a chancellor who 'backs business' and supports entrepreneurs.
- 02He acknowledged government has put 'a lot of pressure' on businesses via employment law, tax and regulation.
- 03A senior Treasury source said Healey is expected to abolish reporting requirements for many smaller enterprises.
- 04Healy defended predecessor Rachel Reeves' employer national insurance rise as needed due to Tory 'dereliction of duty'.
- 05Crime figures released by the ONS show overall crime against individuals and households has fallen over the last decade, except fraud.
02Why it matters
The chancellor's remarks signal a potential shift in fiscal policy that could reduce costs and regulatory burdens for small business owners and entrepreneurs, potentially affecting jobs and investment.
Answers are generated by AI from the story summary; they are not investment, health or legal advice.





