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Labour MPs banned from independent businesses after The Budget 'taxed them out'
Independent hospitality venues in Dorset launch boycott against Labour MPs over business rates set to rise from April 2026, warning one in ten pubs may not survive, owners say.
- Independent hospitality businesses in Southbourne, Christchurch and Wimborne support a campaign to bar Labour MPs after the annual budget, with James Fowler claiming the Labour government are 'taxing out' businesses and Andy Lennox backing the effort.
- Although the government cut the business rates multiplier, last year’s official revaluations increased many premises' rateable values, and the Treasury says it supports high street firms with a £4.3 billion budget package.
- Several venues have put 'No Labour MPs' stickers in their windows, with organisers noting there are only 400 Labour MPs while more than 400 businesses would be affected.
- After meetings with ministers at No.10, Hayes warns the boycott is tying his arm behind his back while many on the Grove tell him they will spend elsewhere.
- Organisers say the protest gives independents a chance to push back at central government, owners note big food chains have strong representation, and Tom Hayes, MP for Bournemouth East, says he stands for small businesses.
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Total News Sources11
Leaning Left0Leaning Right6Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution86% Right
Bias Distribution
- 86% of the sources lean Right
86% Right
14%
R 86%
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