In a heated parliamentary exchange that laid bare the deepening political divisions over Britain's economic direction, Deputy Labour Leader Angela Rayner delivered a scathing indictment of the government's economic record.
The opposition frontbencher accused ministers of having "run out of road" and presiding over an economic policy that was actively damaging British businesses. Her intervention came during Business Questions, where she didn't hold back in her criticism of the Conservative approach to growth and investment.
Government Under Fire for Economic Mismanagement
Rayner pointed to what she described as a pattern of economic sabotage, highlighting how businesses across the country were struggling with uncertainty and lack of support. "The government's failure to provide stability and clear direction is costing jobs and investment," she declared from the despatch box.
The Labour deputy leader emphasised that after years in power, the Conservatives had exhausted their economic ideas and were now simply managing decline rather than fostering growth.
Business Community Concerns Take Centre Stage
During the exchange, Rayner highlighted specific concerns raised by business leaders about the challenging economic environment. She argued that the government's approach was making it harder for companies to plan for the future and invest with confidence.
"Businesses need certainty and stability, not constant chaos and U-turns," Rayner stated, drawing attention to what she characterised as a pattern of inconsistent policymaking that was undermining economic confidence.
Conservative Response and Political Fallout
While the government defended its record, the exchange underscored the growing political battle over economic competence ahead of the next general election. Rayner's forceful performance signals Labour's intention to make economic management a central battleground.
The clash comes amid ongoing concerns about Britain's economic prospects, with businesses facing multiple challenges including inflation, supply chain issues, and uncertain trading conditions.
Political observers noted that Rayner's intervention reflects Labour's confidence in positioning themselves as the party of economic responsibility and business-friendly policies, directly challenging traditional Conservative strengths.
