How will Healey's budget impact UK employers? Alan Lewis comments to Personnel Today

Employment Partner Alan Lewis has been quoted in two Personnel Today articles discussing how John Healey's first budget will impact UK employers.

Alan said that while the 3.9% increase in the minimum wage will be welcomed by some, "labour-intensive sectors such as retail, hospitality and social care will need to assess the wider payroll impact, including pressure to maintain differentials above the statutory minimum". 

👉 Read his full comments here: National living wage to increase by 3.9%

Alan also commented on the Budget’s proposed visa reforms and changes to non-compete clauses. Depending on the final rules, he noted, visa reform could affect businesses’ access to specialist skills, while changes to non-competes could make it easier for people to move jobs or set up competing businesses.

👉 You can read Alan's insights in full here: Budget 2026 fails to 'hit the bullseye' on hiring confidence