Reeves and the Mystery of the Shrinking Growth

Rachel Reeves plots ‘growth push’ as Labour set for bruising elections

Rachel Reeves is plotting another “growth push” as the Labour party prepares itself for a potentially bruising defeat in the local elections.

Meanwhile -

154 Claire's shops, Russell & Bromley and more UK stores close down - full list

Claire's

In a huge blow, Claire's shut all 154 of its UK locations this week. Administrators at Kroll confirmed the closures, revealing that approximately 1,300 members of staff face redundancy.

Russell & Bromley

The British shoe retailer has closed 33 stores. The final Russell & Bromley closure took place on April 23, following the firm's announcement of the first 10 closures on April 21.

LK Bennett

Luxury fashion brand LK Bennett has shut nine stores following its entry into administration. The nine shops had been scheduled for closure by the end of April, although stock sold out more quickly than expected.

Ark Pet Centres

The pet retailer, which operated outlets across South and East Devon, including in Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay, confirmed the immediate closure of all its stores this week.

Unfortunately Reeves isn't likely to be any worse than Miliband or anyone else willing to take on this particular poisoned chalice. 

Even Miliband may see Chancellor of the Exchequer as a bit of a bacon sandwich role. Of course he may be picking up hints that Net Zero is becoming a bacon sandwich role too.