Although on the whole welcoming Wednesday’s Budget, Dorset Chamber has expressed disappointment with some aspects of it.

Chief executive Ian Girling said: “Economic stability was clearly the top priority in the Chancellor’s first full Budget.

“The most welcome announcement was the one right at the start when he revealed that the country is not now expected to enter a recession this year.

“Business needs certainty so many firms in Dorset will be pleased to see some sensible, if not particularly bold, measures in the Budget.

“It was disappointing, yet not surprising, that there was no u-turn on the proposed increase in Corporation Tax although the move towards full expensing to offset 100 per cent of capital investment against profits may help soften the blow for some.

“Other measures to encourage more people back into the workplace and tackle the chronic skills and labour shortages of recent years are encouraging.

“I also hope Dorset firms will be able to take advantage of some of the new funding announcements for defence, AI and carbon capture initiatives.

“The confirmation of the winding down of LEPs with their responsibilities transferring to local authorities from 24 May at last gives some clarity.

“It is an opportunity for the business community and chambers of commerce to work collaboratively with local councils on initiatives and to make sure Dorset receives its fair share of funding.

“It is a blow that Dorset and the surrounding regions have missed out on the new Enterprise Zones so it will also be important that we as a county lobby hard to win as much as possible of the newly announced £200m funding for local regeneration projects.

“The launch of new skills bootcamps and ‘Returnships’ for over 50s could prove to be fruitful although more detail will be required on how this will work.

“There was little in announcement that will provide comfort to firms most hard-pressed by large energy bills or the continued burden of business rates.

“But more generally, continued support for energy costs for householders, the freeze on fuel duty and measures to put more money in the pockets of consumers along with falling inflation will help.

“Overall, it is important to remain upbeat and this Budget does offer some light at the end of the tunnel.

“I would encourage the people of Dorset to continue to support the county’s businesses to help them and the local economy to grow.”