IT’S exactly a month since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister. In the days since he has sought to convey a rather dull impression of solidity and surefootedness, presumably in an attempt to draw what he might argue is a contrast with recent predecessors.

That said, the last few years of Covid and costs crunch have been a time of profound upheaval so a period of predictability wouldn’t go amiss. To provide early confidence over future policymaking Sir Keir’s administration has hit the ground running on tackling many of the urgent challenges facing the nation.

No surprise retail is helping to shift dial on diversity and inclusion

The sheer scope of legislation unveiled in the King’s Speech was startling. It ranged from consequential announcements on energy infrastructure, housing and planning to parliamentary reform. Many of the 40 bills will be of direct relevance to retail.

The Budget Responsibility Bill with its proposed “fiscal lock” holds out the promise a more stable approach to fiscal policy. If this results in lower interest rates, that would be good news for consumer spending and retailers looking to invest.........

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