Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) chief executive Ian Girling has called for bold measures from Chancellor Philip Hammond in his first Autumn Statement on Wednesday.
Ian said: “The Autumn Statement arrives at a critical juncture amid continuing uncertainty following the Brexit vote and the American presidential election.
“Businesses in Dorset have consistently demonstrated their resilience and positivity amid these unsettling circumstances and their impact on the economy.
“Now, in his first major announcement, the new Chancellor Philip Hammond has a golden opportunity to give businesses in Dorset and nationwide greater support to successfully navigate this transitional period.
“In Dorset, businesses tell us that their chief concerns include skills, recruitment and growth.
“DCCI, as part of the British Chambers of Commerce – one of the largest business organisations in the UK – is urging the Chancellor to address these issues as well as support investment, infrastructure improvements and business confidence.
Autumn Statement
“The Government can do this by pledging to halt any new taxes or costs on business for this Parliament, further reform business rates and fund ‘quick start’ infrastructure projects such as housing and broadband.
“Other supportive measures include widening the annual investment allowance and improving the implementation of the Apprenticeship Levy.
“This will give firms greater confidence to invest and seize opportunities for growth, and ensure Dorset and the UK remain superb places to do business.”
Ian and DCCI will be issuing their comments following the Autumn Statement. Don’t forget to visit this website or our Twitter @DeepSouthMedia or under our name on Facebook to find out more.
Contact James Tourgout on james.tourgout@deepsouthmedia.co.uk and 07827 806400 for more details.