Dunstone hailed as Labour ideal, as party launches business manifesto
Prime Minister Tony Blair put retail on the general election agenda today, with a whistle-stop visit to Carphone Warehouse's London HQ. Accompanied by Chancellor Gordon Brown and Carphone Warehouse founder and chief executive Charles Dunstone, Blair praised the 'energy, commitment and dedication' of the retailer's staff.

The Labour party launched its business manifesto this morning and a Blair aide said Carphone Warehouse typified the culture of entrepreneurship and investment in people that Labour wants to foster. In a short speech to the assembled staff, Blair said: 'Charles Dunstone can provide the leadership, but it's you guys who do the work.'

Dunstone said Blair's acknowledgement was a tribute to the amazing journey the business has been in since it was founded 15 years ago.

Key planks of the manifesto are:

  • Commitment to a stable economy

  • Rising productivity

  • Cuts on capital gains tax

  • Cutting down on red tape

  • Better education and transport

  • Increased certainty in merger regime

The Conservatives launched their action plan for business on Monday, pledging to reduce taxation and lower business crime.

Retail Week is launching its Top 50 movers and shakers survey in the next issue, due out tomorrow. Be sure to get your copy to find out who's in and who's not.

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