Simon Rice

Business groups are sharply criticising John Healey’s budget “This budget lacks the bold moves that would have made it easier for firms to invest, hire and grow,” CBI boss Rain Newton-Smith says “There is nothing concrete to provide breathing space for the vast majority of businesses who are already dealing with energy bills a third higher than their European counterparts.” The budget had “nothing to ease sky-high energy bills and nothing to make hiring someone more affordable,” the Federation of Small Businesses says. The British Chambers of Commerce says Healey’s package lacks “the big calls that would really shift the economic dial” and that “many firms will have been hoping for a greater impact.” Make UK says the budget “failed to address any of the fundamental costs holding back investment and growth in manufacturing.” Via @Joe_Mayes @JacobReid02 @sabahmeddings: bloomberg.com/news/articles/…