'Culture shift' needed in how UK does business, Andy Burnham urges
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is calling for a 'culture shift' in business, emphasizing government-industry partnerships to drive growth and investment. He is set to meet with leaders of major corporations to discuss economic strategy ahead of the upcoming Budget.
Why it matters
The meeting signals a shift in the UK's economic approach under the new administration, focusing on industrial strategy and private-sector collaboration.
Image source, Getty Images By Mitchell Labiak Business reporter Published 13 September 2026 Updated 1 hour ago The UK needs a "culture shift" in how it does business, Andy Burnham has said ahead of a meeting with some of Britain's biggest bosses.
The prime minister said those who take risks in business should be backed by government and local leaders should have the power to work with companies.
The Labour government has been criticised for increasing costs for firms, such as with the employer national insurance and minimum wage changes under Burnham's predecessor Sir Keir Starmer.
The meeting comes as Chancellor John Healey prepares for his first Budget next month, with rising borrowing costs in recent weeks adding to the pressure on government finances.
Downing Street said Burnham will meet the chief executives of BP, Shell, HSBC, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, BT, Vodafone, Rolls-Royce and several others at Number 10.
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