Treasury minister Emma Reynolds has retracted comments she made suggesting that employers are not "working people." Following a significant backlash, Reynolds stated she wished to "correct the record" regarding her remarks.
Speaking in the House of Commons, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury said, "Of course, the brilliant men and women across the country who run small businesses are working people. I thank them for their contribution to our local economies and our local high streets. The bakeries, the cafes, the restaurants, the beauticians, the hairdressers and the local pub and so many more."
Reynolds' initial comments came during an interview on GB News when she was questioned about recent Budget decisions increasing taxes on landlords and savers. She had argued for a distinction between employers and employees, even when presented with the example of a small business owner struggling with rising costs. When challenged that these individuals are both employers and workers, Reynolds maintained a distinction between employees and employers, noting that she herself employs a cleaner due to working long hours.
Her initial statement drew sharp criticism, with Conservative MPs branding the remarks "beyond belief."