预算案公布前夕 英国CEO们集体摊牌：再增税就砍投资！

Core Viewpoint - UK businesses are expressing strong concerns over potential increases in corporate tax rates, warning that such measures could lead to significant reductions in investment and operational capacity in the country [1][2]. Group 1: Business Concerns - CEOs from various sectors, including airports and hospitality, are voicing worries that increased corporate tax burdens will undermine consumer confidence and hinder government growth initiatives [1][2]. - Stewart Wingate, managing director of Gatwick Airport, indicated that a proposed increase in corporate tax rates could jeopardize a £2.2 billion expansion project, highlighting unprecedented cost pressures that may force a reevaluation of investment plans [2][3]. - Jon Hendry Pickup, CEO of Butlin's, warned that substantial tax increases would compel the company to cut back on investments and potentially lead to layoffs [2]. Group 2: Policy Recommendations - Andy Briggs, CEO of Phoenix Group Holdings, called for clearer government incentives to direct pension capital towards infrastructure and growth equity, expressing concern over rising pension costs due to proposed salary sacrifice reforms [3]. - Steven Fine, CEO of Peel Hunt Ltd., suggested that raising income tax could provide the UK government with the necessary fiscal space to stimulate economic growth and allow for potential interest rate cuts by the Bank of England [4]. - George Weston, CEO of Associated British Foods, advocated for the removal of tax exemptions for low-value goods from brands like Temu and Shein, arguing that these brands contribute little to the UK economy [5]. Group 3: Industry-Specific Insights - Lisa Jacobs, CEO of Funding Circle Holdings, emphasized the need for increased funding for growth assurance programs to support small businesses, highlighting the importance of policy stability for investment confidence [5]. - Nathan Coe, CEO of Auto Trader Group, urged the government not to impose punitive taxes on electric vehicle owners and to enhance support for charging infrastructure, aligning with the government's net-zero and electric vehicle promotion goals [6]. - Steve Hare, CEO of Sage Plc, viewed the upcoming budget as a crucial opportunity to accelerate the UK's digital transformation and embrace artificial intelligence to boost productivity [6].