When engaging with residents in various towns, the prevalent concern consistently raised is the financial strain of everyday expenses.
This issue has always resonated with me. Whether advocating for more accessible infant formula for new parents or aiding families in avoiding predatory lending practices, addressing the cost of living challenges has been a personal commitment.
The previous year involved extensive travels across the nation to engage with Iceland’s dedicated workforce of 30,000 employees and the five million customers we serve weekly. These interactions culminated in the ‘Iceland Manifesto,’ a document released prior to the last year’s election, encapsulating the sentiments expressed during these discussions.
The consensus reached highlighted the feeling of alienation from policymakers and the ongoing struggle with the affordability of essential needs such as childcare, veterinary expenses, utilities, and food. These concerns persist, underscoring the pressing need for action, as the cost of living continues to dominate people’s daily worries.
My decision to accept a Labour peerage is rooted in a desire to infuse practical street-level insights into the discussions at Westminster, amplifying the voices of businesses and communities nationwide that we support. The richness of knowledge and the quality of debates in the House of Lords have always impressed me.
Being invited to share my experiences as a retailer and entrepreneur in this esteemed setting is a moment of pride. I aim to offer a unique perspective, drawing from my involvement in a family-run enterprise that provides employment opportunities for many and offers millions access to affordable, high-quality food.
Having experienced firsthand the challenges of meeting weekly payroll obligations in business and understanding the struggles of families to afford daily meals, I am attuned to the intricacies faced by both sectors. Furthermore, as an entrepreneur, I comprehend the drive behind ventures that entail significant risks.
The current focus of the Labour Government on fostering economic growth and dismantling hindrances to it is evident. However, sustainable growth heavily relies on private enterprise, necessitating a conducive environment for investment and operations with stable regulations and tax policies that support business endeavors.
I firmly believe that the solutions to challenges are not confined to Westminster alone. The active participation of individuals with vested interests and a candid approach significantly enhances the effectiveness of governance. In my new capacity, I am committed to upholding this principle.
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