In various towns, conversations with shoppers often revolve around concerns regarding the rising cost of living. This issue holds personal significance to me, having been involved in efforts to make infant formula more accessible for new parents and assisting families in avoiding predatory lending practices.

Having engaged with Iceland’s vast network of 30,000 employees and five million customers nationwide last year, we compiled our insights into the ‘Iceland Manifesto,’ released just prior to the previous election. The feedback revealed a sense of disenfranchisement among the public, grappling with the increasing expenses of essentials like childcare, veterinary care, heating, and food. Despite the time that has passed, these worries persist, highlighting the ongoing challenges around affordability, with the cost of living ranking as the primary daily concern for many.

I am set to take on a new role as a Labour peer with a specific aim – to bring a practical, street-level perspective to Westminster, amplifying the voices of businesses and communities across the UK. The opportunity to contribute insights gained from managing a family business that supports thousands of jobs and provides millions with access to affordable, quality food is a source of pride for me.

Understanding firsthand the financial pressures faced by businesses meeting weekly payroll obligations and the daily struggles of families to put nutritious meals on the table, I aim to offer a unique perspective rooted in my experience as an entrepreneur. The current Labour administration has prioritized economic growth, aiming to eliminate hindrances that impede progress. However, sustainable growth hinges on private enterprise, necessitating a conducive environment that instills confidence for investment and operates within a stable, business-friendly regulatory framework.

I have always maintained that the solutions do not solely reside in Westminster, but in the collective efforts of individuals with vested interests who speak candidly. In my upcoming role, I am committed to upholding this belief and offering practical insights to drive meaningful change.