Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper has introduced a detailed 30-page growth plan designed to simplify the process for businesses and investors in the UK. Cooper, who also serves as the party's Treasury spokesperson, presented the plan at the Lib Dem conference in Brighton. She argued that the UK's economic progress is being held back by what she called a "computer says no" approach — meaning overly complex and rigid systems that make it hard for businesses to operate. She noted that while the UK excels in research and innovation, too often these ideas and startups end up being developed and profited from abroad rather than in Britain. A key element of Cooper’s plan is the creation of a digital one-stop-shop service for businesses and investors. This service would integrate various functions, including tax, regulation, legal support, and business registration, under a new Department for Growth. The goal is to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and help small and medium-sized businesses compete more effectively. Cooper believes this could help retain more of the UK’s world-class research and innovation within the country. Cooper also proposed a new Growth and Defence Partnership with the European Union, which she described as the "single biggest growth lever we could pull." She argued that deepening ties with Europe could significantly boost the UK's economy and help reverse some of the economic damage caused by Brexit. According to Cooper, Brexit is currently costing the UK £90 billion annually in lost tax revenue. She stated that if the Liberal Democrats were in power, they would work to secure agreements on the single market, customs union, and defense, emphasizing that Britain "belongs at the heart of Europe." In her speech, Cooper criticized Chancellor John Healey for a recent speech she said lacked vision and failed to address the importance of Europe. She also criticized Reform and the Conservative Party for engaging in a "race to the bottom" without credible financial plans. Cooper pointed to Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith’s role in supporting the controversial Liz Truss mini-budget, which she claimed had negative economic consequences, including a weakened pound and increased mortgage costs. She warned that if Nigel Farage were to gain political influence, it could lead to a dangerous shift in politics, similar to what she described as Donald Trump's approach in the U.S. She emphasized that the Liberal Democrats are committed to preventing such a scenario and maintaining stability in the UK. Separately, Ed Davey called for an immediate 10p cut to fuel duty, reinforcing the party's stance as a "firewall against Farage" as the conference began.