Celebrity hairdresser joins revolt against Labour MPs
A celebrity hairdresser, trusted by politicians and royalty, has joined a growing movement that is seeing Labour MPs refused service across the UK. Michael Van Clarke announced he will no longer serve Cabinet ministers, citing a Budget that he claims is damaging to small businesses, reports BritPanorama.
Van Clarke’s decision follows a wave of protests, including reports of over 1,000 pubs barring Labour MPs due to increased business rates under Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves. His salon, established in Marylebone in 1988, is among various service providers now refusing to cater to Labour representatives.
Years of rising taxes and operational costs have left many salons, including Van Clarke’s, with little margin for error. He expressed solidarity with the initiative, stating, “I feel the lives of Labour MPs should be hindered and diminished like they are doing to ours.” His condemnation reflects widespread frustration among small business owners regarding the current government’s economic policies.
Van Clarke is not alone in this stance; his sentiments resonate with many in the hospitality and service sectors, where similar refusals are taking shape. He remarked further, “If the entire country refuses to do business with them perhaps they will get the message.”
Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride commented on the situation, stating, “I’m sorry to see hairdressers being forced to make a stand against this anti-business Government but I’m not surprised. Labour gave the clear message that business rates in our high streets would be coming down. Now the truth is cutting through hard with many small businesses hanging on by a thread.” Stride’s remarks highlight the widening disconnect between the government’s promises and the realities faced by local businesses.
The Mail on Sunday initially reported that the trend of barring Labour MPs from establishments is extending to hairdressers and barbers, with protest signs appearing in shop windows. This rebellion against the Labour party underscores the growing discontent among business owners regarding perceived government disregard for their plight.
The developments signal a potential shift in the relationship between businesses and politicians, as more establishments seek to draw attention to the impact of government policies on their operations.
This unfolding situation highlights the challenges small businesses face in an evolving economic landscape, where fiscal policies and public sentiment overlap markedly. As protests grow, the broader implications for Labour and governmental accountability will be closely monitored.
