Asda chief Allan Leighton says Labour could boost economic growth at the Budget, but argues the party must change its approach and “ditch” what he describes as heavy taxes on high streets. He frames the issue as a measure that could support retail activity and wider economic performance.
Leighton’s comments also reference criticism by Mike Ashley, who has attacked plans associated with Labour efforts to revive the high street. The reporting links the business perspective to the debate over how policy should address struggling town-centre shopping areas, including whether taxation is a key driver of decline.
Both outlets present the same core claim: a business leader argues that Budget decisions should reduce burdens on high-street businesses rather than maintain them. They differ only in emphasis and phrasing, with one adding a direct reference to Labour’s Budget role and the call for tax changes tied to high-street recovery.
