Andy Burnham's Tariffs 'Put British Baked Beans Under Threat'
Andy Burnham’s tariff cuts will have no meaningful impact on prices while putting British baked beans under threat, manufacturers warned. Labour committed to suspending import tariffs on more than 100 products, including imported chocolate, marmalade and Burnham’s beloved baked beans, in Wednesday's Budget. Chancellor John Healey said it would help households struggling with the cost of living by slashing up to £21 off a household's annual shop.
TL;DR
- Manufacturers claim tariff cuts on imports like baked beans will have minimal impact on prices.
- The measure is predicted to threaten the British baked bean industry by allowing cheaper US and Chinese imports.
- UK manufacturers face higher overheads, including energy costs, making it difficult to compete.
- Princes Group and Heinz express concerns about the potential negative effects on UK jobs and production.
- The Food and Drink Federation states the Budget did not address the pressures faced by food and drink manufacturers.
- Labour acknowledges potential limited impacts on domestic producers but believes consumer benefits outweigh risks.