Over 120 business leaders, including notable figures in construction, have expressed support for the Labour Party.
- The letter, published in The Times, calls for political and economic change.
- Signatories include Jack Kirkland, Eleanor Deely, and Tony Carney from the construction industry.
- The business leaders argue for a stable government that promotes long-term growth and innovation.
- They believe Labour offers the prospect of change needed to revitalise the UK economy.
In an unprecedented move, more than 120 business leaders have signed a letter published in The Times, expressing their solidarity with the Labour Party as the United Kingdom approaches the 2024 general election. Among these signatories are prominent figures in the construction industry, including Jack Kirkland, chairman of Bowmer & Kirkland, a substantial family-owned company in Derbyshire. Kirkland is joined by Eleanor Deely of Deeley Group and Tony Carney of Huyton Asphalt Civils, both of whom play pivotal roles in their respective companies, with turnovers of £42 million and £27 million respectively.
The letter articulates a compelling plea for change, stating that Labour has demonstrated a transformation that warrants an opportunity to reshape the nation. The business leaders collectively voice their concern over the current economic climate characterised by instability and stagnation, which they attribute to a lack of political stability and consistent economic strategy over the past decade. They argue that the UK’s potential as a leading global economy is being hindered by inadequate infrastructure and a skills shortage.
Highlighting the need for a government that partners fiscal discipline with a robust growth strategy, the signatories advocate for cooperation between public and private sectors to drive innovation and investment. This collaboration, they propose, is essential for building both digital and physical capital, as well as reforming the skills system. Such measures are deemed critical for achieving sustained productivity growth, a goal that remains elusive under the current economic policies.
Echoing sentiments of urgency, the letter further elaborates that Labour is poised to partner with businesses to unlock the UK’s full economic potential. ‘We are in urgent need of a new outlook to break free from the stagnation of the past decade,’ the letter reads, underscoring a deep-seated desire for a leadership that can rally both resources and resolve to address the challenges facing the economy. By publicly declaring their support for Labour, these business leaders hope to inspire others to recognise and act on the necessity for change.
The business leaders’ letter underscores a pivotal moment in UK politics, calling for a shift towards a stable and growth-oriented government.
