LONDON: Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Wednesday his government will do what it can to help lower costs for businesses, while cautioning that he is operating against the backdrop of a “difficult financial outlook.” In an interview with BBC Radio’s “Wake Up to Money” programme, Burnham said the government’s budget, due Oct. 28, would examine business rates, a tax levied on shops, offices and other commercial premises, more broadly. “I know the cost of doing business is too high, particularly for smaller businesses,” Burnham said. “I’m signalling going further on business rates,” Burnham said. Burnham said this strategy, an “accumulation of smaller things”, could add up to help ease pressure on household finances.