Rachel Reeves ‘will never be forgiven’ as top UK restaurant closes – opened in 2016 | UK | News
Rachel Reeves’ last two budgets hurt the hospitality industry (Image: Getty)
The owner of a leading restaurant in England has blamed the Labor Party for its closure. They said Chancellor Rachel Reeves “will never be forgiven” for her last two budgets, which saw increases in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and the minimum wage.
Covino, a Michelin-recommended restaurant in Chester, announced its immediate closure last Friday (8 May). The restaurant opened in 2016 and was known for its French-inspired small plates and wines. Owner Christopher Laidler confirmed the closure on Instagram, explaining that the business could no longer survive after the last two Labor Budgets. However, Mr Laidler thanked his customers, employees and suppliers for their support over the years.
He said: “We were due to celebrate our 10th anniversary this December but it didn’t happen. For the avoidance of doubt, Covino’s ’cause of death’ can be attributed to Labour’s last two budgets. “In trying to do the right thing, they went after all the wrong people, which is something I will never forget or forgive them for.
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“On a more positive note, over the last decade I’ve built some incredible relationships with guests, staff and suppliers who I now consider great friends. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along this journey. Your custom has really lent itself to things like my children’s football boots – something the big companies can’t tell you, so keep supporting your local independents!”
He added: “I’m going to spend some time licking my wounds, filing for bankruptcy, and most importantly, making up for lost time with my family, which has come second to restaurants in the last 10 years. I’ll see you all again soon once we figure out what’s next. Good luck to everyone fighting their way through these testing times.”
Covino closed last Friday (8 May) (Image: Google Maps Street View)
The last two Labor Budgets, in October 2024 and late 2025, have placed increasing pressure on the hospitality sector. A number of venues were forced to close, resulting in high levels of job loss.
It is estimated that approximately 100,000 people have lost their jobs in the sector since October 2024. Meanwhile, employment rose by more than 9,000 last December alone.
In 2024, Rachel Reeves increased NICs from 13.8% to 15% and lowered the payment threshold. Meanwhile, increasing the minimum wage increased the pressure on businesses.
Covino closed after 10 years of operation (Image: covino)
‘Covino never disappoints’
Covino has many positive reviews on Tripadvisor. Many visitors noted the restaurant’s exceptional food, friendly service and lively atmosphere.
Kerry M said: “Covino never disappoints. A small, lively, busy restaurant with a great atmosphere and really warm, fun staff who make you feel instantly at home. The food is outstanding. Even the sourdough and butter set the tone and the Comté gougères were everything you wanted them to be – light, fluffy, beautifully cheesy and perfectly judged.”
Claire A said: “Small, cozy place with a French influence. Great wine. The food was amazing. I especially loved the veal tartare! I’d love to come back.”
John I wrote: “A truly delightful place, friendly and comfortable, with superb and reasonably priced food prepared in the room by the guest chef. Bodrum is of high quality and it all made for a wonderful evening for us.”
