UK ministers are exploring a major reform of the tax system, potentially devolving billions of pounds in business rates to regional mayors. The move aims to give local leaders more control over tax revenue, reward economic growth, and address regional inequality, with proposals expected in the upcoming budget.
Hedge fund Corvex Management is demanding Whitbread, owner of Premier Inn, be put up for sale, citing a "sleepy share price" and criticizing the company's five-year strategy for its slow returns. Corvex, holding a 7% stake, wants key parts of the plan suspended and threatens to nominate new directors if the board doesn't comply.
Auguste, a new Italian restaurant in Hackney, offers Abruzzo-inspired small plates, with arrosticini skewers as a highlight. Despite some dishes needing refinement, the restaurant boasts a loyal following.
Airport bosses say the rise, which will take effect next Monday, is "unavoidable" because of rising business rates.
Airport bosses say the rise, which will take effect next Monday, is "unavoidable" because of rising business rates.
UK employment growth slowed significantly with only 24,000 jobs added in the three months to February, below population growth. Payrolls contracted in February and fell by 11,000 in March, while vacancies continued to decline. Economists now forecast unemployment will rise to around 5.5% this year, potentially reaching 6% if energy prices spike further. The weak labour market, combined with the Middle East conflict driving up energy costs and business uncertainty, has complicated the Bank of England's interest rate decisions.
