On the day Reeves clobbered businesses with the Binfire Budget, it was Trade Minister Chris Bryant’s job to schmooze guests at the Family Business Week Reception last night. Having just whacked small companies with a hike in dividend tax, you’d think Bryant would be on top form as the government’s man of the hour. Businesses leaders were feeling a bit bruised, after all. Unfortunately there was a diary clash: Bryant scooted off after his speech to watch Othello…
“It probably says in my briefing notes that I’m meant to pretend that I’m off to have some important meeting, I’m not. I’m going to the theatre. And I bought my own tickets – Othello, in case you’re wondering…”
Guido hears the speech landed like a lead balloon in the room. Bryant’s claim that the reduction of Indian tariffs on biscuits will be a boon for many small businesses didn’t exactly mend the damage. Hopefully Othello was enjoyable. For what it’s worth, the Guardian gave it 3 stars…
