Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce welcomes mini-budget for business as bosses look to the Government for help

Huddersfield-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has welcomed support for business in Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s mini-budget.

Martin Hathaway, managing director of the chamber, said: “We welcome the realistic approach of Mr Kwarteng’s budget and look forward to seeing his three-step energy plan spring into action.

“Energy costs have been one of the biggest concerns facing businesses here in West Yorkshire and I’m sure they will be relieved to hear this plan but now we need action.

“This support needs to get into businesses’ hands immediately to truly make the best impact. Firms have already been struggling for many months with these rising costs, so the quicker we can get this lifeline to them, the better.

“The target of 2.5% yearly economic growth is reassuring to see and sets out a commitment from our Government that they are looking ahead to longer term, sustainable growth rather than a quick fix.

“Coupled with the reversal of next year’s planned corporation tax increase, it is fantastic to see business at the heart of the latest announcements.

“It is pleasing to see Yorkshire regions in consideration for the Chancellor’s new investment zones; these will be crucial to levelling up towns and cities across the UK.

“These zones, alongside the infrastructure commitments, are incredibly encouraging for northern businesses, and a step in the right direction to get back on track with truly levelling up.

“These developments must target areas that have been left behind for too long and bring them into modern day Britain.

“The only way we can boost our economy properly is by ensuring that all corners of the United Kingdom have access to equal funding, support and opportunities.

“Strike action has recently been hitting our firms hard, with employees struggling to get to their jobs and day-to-day lives being continuously disrupted.

“The Chancellor’s promise to tackle this is a step in the right direction to opening productive conversations with unions and workers to ensure a better future for all that keeps our region moving forward.”