The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement has been well received by Dorset Chamber, but BCP Council has a different view.

Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber, said: “At last the Chancellor has taken some pro-active steps to support business in what has been, and continues to be, an incredibly challenging economic climate.

“His Autumn Statement included measures which will be welcomed in many quarters in Dorset, although some may feel he has not gone far enough.

“The extended freeze on the small business multiplier for business rates, and the extension of the 75% discount for hospitality, retail and leisure will be a comfort to many although fundamental reform is still desperately needed.

“Incentives to encourage some firms to clean up their act on late payments are encouraging but more needs to be done to tackle this scourge affecting business.

“Some businesses may have concerns about the increase in the National Living Wage at a time when costs are already high, while I hope other measures to improve productivity, simplify tax relief, support growth and innovation, boost the labour market and put more money in people’s pockets will be felt in Dorset.

“It was a business heavy Autumn Statement with 110 measures, so the devil will clearly be in the detail and we must make sure that Dorset makes the most of every single opportunity it offers.”

However, the Autumn Statement hasn’t gone down so well with BCP Council.

Leader Cllr Vikki Slade said: “It’s disappointing that despite more than a decade of austerity there still appears to be no sign of a fairer funding deal for local authorities including BCP Council.

“Like most local councils we are facing an unprecedented economic environment like never before. Soaring inflation has driven up the costs to provide services that many of our residents rely on. We are seeing an increase in demand for social care including those key services that keep children and vulnerable adults safe.

“I will continue to work with the Local Government Association, partners and other local councils to lobby government for a fairer funding deal and for more money to care for the children and adults of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole who need it.”