- Gary Neville, the former Manchester United star, has criticised Chancellor Rachel Reeves's national insurance hike, saying it has hindered employment.
- Mr Neville, previously a vocal supporter of the Labour Party, believes the increase “could have been held back” due to the tough economic climate.
- He joins other business leaders and economists in expressing concerns over the chancellor's tax-raising decisions since the government took office.
- While supporting the minimum wage increase, Mr Neville highlighted the national insurance rise as a significant “challenge” for businesses, including his own.
- The chancellor faces a £5bn gap in her spending plans following Sir Keir Starmer’s benefits U-turn and potential further financial pressures from a global trade war.
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