Business & Finance

Sports Direct founder Mike Ashley criticizes Prime Minister Andy Burnham's retail policies

Mike Ashley urged the government to overhaul business rates and lower employment costs in an open letter ahead of the October Budget.

Updated Aug 27, 2026 · 21:17 UTC1 reports

The short version

Sports Direct founder Mike Ashley sent a letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham describing recent retail and cost-of-living proposals as populist.
Ashley argued that rising employment costs and current business rate policies are forcing high street businesses to struggle.
Downing Street defended the administration's policy direction, stating it aims to support British businesses and lower essential living costs.
The retail executive called on the government to announce comprehensive tax reform and cost reductions for employers in the upcoming October 27 Budget.

Mike Ashley criticized Prime Minister Andy Burnham's retail proposals in a letter, characterizing them as populist reactions and everyday fixes.[BBC News]
Ashley opposed plans to increase business rates on online and large warehouses to finance rate reductions for pubs and social clubs, describing the policy concept as delusional.[BBC News]
Downing Street stated that its policies aim to back British business, generate growth, and make core essentials affordable, noting planned VAT cuts on electricity and targeted rate reductions.[BBC News]
Burnham's high street policy proposals include permitting local councils to block new vaping and betting shops, banning misleading recommended retail prices, and ending subscription traps.[BBC News]
The government has scheduled a national Budget for October 27 and promised a 20% business rates reduction for pubs, social clubs, and live music venues starting in April.[BBC News]

Whether the government will modify its stance on business rates or employer costs during the October 27 Budget remains unconfirmed.[BBC News]