Lancashire business leaders have given a cautious response to plans unveiled in the Autumn Budget.
Faced with rising national insurance payments, questions over business rates, the lack of clarity over skills and flexible working rights, the gathered delegates at the Chambers Budget Briefing quizzed a panel of business experts over the contents of this week’s policies.
Many businesses will have to absorb the costs of paying more national insurance while only a small percentage of firms will escape the hike.
The Budget Briefing, hosted by the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, included a panel of selected county businesses from the service, food, construction and technology sector.
Some businesses said the Budget was a gamble and left little room for businesses to grow, with others saying plans for future investment would have to be shelved until the economy improves
