Sports Direct Founder Criticizes Burnham's Retail Plans and Policies

Sports Direct founder Mike Ashley criticized Prime Minister Andy Burnham's cost of living and retail policies in a letter, calling them 'populist reactions.' He condemned proposals to increase business rates on warehouses to support pubs and clubs, labeling them as 'delusional.' A Downing Street spokesperson mentioned that Burnham aims to support British businesses and announced a 20% business rates cut for pubs, clubs, and music venues starting in April. Ashley urged Burnham to lower employer costs and rethink business rates in his upcoming Budget on October 28, which could impact High Street retailers like Sports Direct (SD).