Full Breakdown
Hairdressers Join Pubs in Banning Labour MPs Over Business Rates Discontent
12/28/2025, 10:16:46 PM
Rising Tensions Among Small Businesses
Hairdressers across the UK are increasingly voicing their discontent with the government’s handling of business rates, following a similar movement among publicans. Many salons and barbershops have begun banning Labour MPs from their premises, citing what they describe as a "betrayal" regarding recent changes to business rates. The discontent stems from a promise made by British Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reduce bills for smaller firms, which has instead resulted in minimal relief. Small businesses are set to receive only a 5p discount on the multiplier used to calculate their final business rates, a figure that many argue is insufficient compared to their requests for a 20p reduction.
Collette Osborne, who operates two Hairven salons in Nottinghamshire, exemplifies the frustration felt by many in the industry. She reported an anticipated increase of over £10,000 in her business rates, stating, "There is no spare capacity to absorb business rate increases on top of rising wages, utilities, finance costs, and Covid debt repayments." This sentiment is echoed by other salon owners, including Emma Vickery from London, who emphasized the unsustainable financial pressures they face.
Industry Response and Criticism
The Salon Employers' Association, represented by Toby Dicker, has also expressed disappointment, suggesting that the government has failed to support the backbone of the high street. Dicker remarked, "Our members are all decent, hard-working, kind people... [They] feel betrayed." The backlash against Labour MPs is seen as a direct response to the perceived neglect of small businesses by the government.
In contrast, a Labour source defended the government's position, asserting that the Chancellor's recent budget included a support package worth £4.3 billion aimed at assisting high street businesses, including hairdressers and salons. This statement reflects the ongoing tension between the government and small business owners, who feel their needs are not being adequately addressed.
Verbatim Quotes
- "I am furious that the Government now seem to have their fingers in their ears." — Collette Osborne, Salon Owner
- "Without urgent support or recognition of the challenges faced by small employers, businesses like mine will disappear." — Emma Vickery, Hairdresser
- "Our members are all decent, hard-working, kind people... [They] feel betrayed." — Toby Dicker, Salon Employers' Association
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While salon owners express significant dissatisfaction with the government's business rates policy, the Labour Party maintains that they are actively supporting high street businesses through financial packages. This discrepancy highlights a gap in communication and understanding between the government and small business owners.
As the situation develops, the ongoing conflict between small businesses and government policy continues to raise questions about the future viability of high street establishments in the UK.
