Former Marks and Spencer chairman Lord Stuart Rose has criticised new government plans to crack down on high street stores, describing the proposals as "a lot of b******s about nothing" and "hot air". The comments come in response to Prime Minister Andy Burnham's announcement of new powers aimed at curbing the spread of vape shops, betting shops and other businesses that do little to serve local communities.
Burnham's high street crackdown
Under the new measures, local councils will be given stronger powers to reject planning applications from unwanted shops, and outdated "Aim to Permit" rules are to be scrapped. The government says this will close planning loopholes and help bring town centres back to life. Mr Burnham also announced tougher powers for police and local authorities to shut down dodgy businesses linked to organised crime for longer periods.
Speaking on BBC Newsnight, Lord Rose said: "By all means give local councils teeth but none of this will revive high streets unless rates are reformed and cost to employ reduced. Just a lot of hot air." The Conservative peer added: "Can't believe such a long press release says so little. If the vape shops are illegal they should be shut down full stop! Ditto betting shops, although neither activity is illegal."
Prime Minister's defence
Mr Burnham defended the plans, saying: "For many people, the high streets they grew up with have been hollowed out and become unrecognisable over decades of decline. The rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for."
He added: "That's not on. I said we would improve Britain's high streets, and that's exactly what we are starting to do. We're putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street. Local councils will be given the powers they need to rein in unwanted shops and bring town centres back to life."
The Prime Minister also stated: "High streets are the beating heart of local communities, but for too long Westminster has stood by while they have been in decline. This government is committed to restoring our high streets and bringing back hope across Britain."
Impact and reaction
The proposals are part of a wider government effort to address high street decline, which has been exacerbated by the growth of vape stores, betting shops and other businesses that critics say do not serve local needs. Lord Rose's comments highlight ongoing concerns among some business leaders that the measures do not address underlying issues such as business rates and employment costs.
Under the new rules, planning loopholes will be closed, and the outdated "Aim to Permit" rule is to be scrapped to prevent unwanted vape and betting shops from taking over high streets. Additionally, businesses linked to organised crime will face longer shutdowns under tougher powers for police and local authorities. The government says these measures will give communities more control over their local high streets and help reverse decades of decline.
