Dorset Chamber unimpressed with Spring Statement

Dorset Chamber was not very impressed with Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement on Wednesday 26 March.

Ian Girling, chief executive of the chamber, said: “This was an uninspiring Spring Statement which would have done little to reassure businesses in Dorset.

“A drastic cut in the growth forecast from two per cent to one per cent for this year clearly demonstrated the true impact that the government’s policies have already had, including the hated employer National Insurance rise set to come into effect in just a few days’ time.

“Dorset must make sure its many excellent defence and technology businesses gain their fair share of increased spending on defence, including access to MOD contracts, infrastructure and skills development.

“We are pleased that the Chancellor introduced no further taxes on business but this could very much be the calm before the storm when NI and minimum wage rises come into effect and if the Chancellor needs to find more money in the full Autumn Budget.”