Small business chief says even Labour accepts Britain's tax burden is too high ahead of Wednesday's Budget

From the Newshound archive · first published 25 October 2026.

Craig Beaumont, executive director of the Federation of Small Businesses, warns the tax burden will hit its highest level since 1948 by 2028. He compared the moment to Stafford Cripps, calling him one of the least successful chancellors ever. Beaumont has met both the Chancellor and the Prime Minister in Downing Street. He says ministers 'shouldn't be looking for ways to increase taxes everywhere.'

Beaumont wants Small Business Rate Relief raised from £12,000 to £25,000.