The survey highlighted that the regeneration of towns, infrastructure and local economies is the most popular of his expected policies. However, they warned the new government to avoid repeating the tax missteps that undermined business confidence and stifled growth under the previous administration.

Three in five (57%) of members surveyed by ICAEW said that addressing the tax burden on business should be Burnham’s number one priority when he takes office.

Frequent changes to the tax system in recent years have hit businesses disproportionately, ICAEW members said, creating uncertainty and reducing appetite for investment.

Members also recalled the “crippling” effect last year’s rise in employer national insurance contributions had on small businesses, which limited hiring, investment and growth.

Meanwhile, more than two-fifths of respondents (43%) said that the regulatory burden should be a priority for the new PM in his first 100 days, amid concerns that compliance has become too costly, complex and time consuming, especially for smaller firms.

When asked about Burnham’s expected policy priorities, 40% of respondents said the regeneration of towns, infrastructure and local economies, including establishing ‘good growth funds’ to consolidate public and private investment, would likely have a positive impact on their organisation.

Alan Vallance, ICAEW Chief Executive, said:

“These findings give Andy Burnham a direction of travel for his first weeks in Downing Street. Our members are clear that government must not repeat the tax and regulatory mistakes that have damaged confidence, investment and growth in recent years.

“The choices of previous administrations have left businesses facing burdens that stifle growth, diminish confidence and discourage investment. If the new government is serious about growth, it must create the conditions for businesses to invest, hire and expand.

“Our members see first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing businesses across the UK, and their message is clear: seize the opportunity, simplify tax and remove the barriers holding businesses back. The decisions the government takes in its first weeks and months will be critical to whether it achieves its ambitions for economic growth and prosperity.”

Over a third (37%) said skills and workforce development should be a top priority, with members particularly vocal about the importance of getting those not currently in education, employment or training (NEETS) into work. One in three (36%) cited incentives for business investment as a priority.

Tax complexity was also considered a priority by 33% of respondents, strongly echoing their views on the tax burden.

Reform to business rates and education key priorities, amid devolution doubts

Of Burnham’s other policy priorities, reform to business rates (32%) and changing the education system to ensure parity between academic and technical paths (30%) were also priorities, the survey found.

However, just 14% of respondents indicated that deeper devolution would have a positive impact on their organisation, highlighting a need for the Burnham team to strengthen the case for reform and show early, visible wins if devolved powers expand.

A quarter (24%) of respondents working or living in the North are convinced of the positive impact devolution would have on their organisation, compared to only 8% among Southern respondents.

Despite highlighting improved infrastructure, more responsive skills policies and better targeted local investment as potential benefits, respondents were not confident in local policymakers’ ability to deliver.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. ICAEW polled 875 members between 6 July and 10 July 2026.
2. ICAEW members advise over 3 million businesses in every nation and region of the UK, and 82% of the FTSE 100 have an ICAEW Chartered Accountant on their board.