Suffolk businesses await extra support in 2021 Budget
Rishi Sunak will outline his budget for the next year this afternoon
Last updated 3rd Mar 2021
Businesses in Suffolk are waiting to hear what support will be available to them in the 2021 Budget.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer will set out his plans for the next financial year this afternoon (12.30).
It was confirmed last night (2 March) the furlough scheme would continue until the end of September.
Mr Sunak is expected to announced additional support for culture and sports, as well as help for small businesses.
It's a move Suffolk Chambers of Commerce is hoping will be made to help businesses severely impacted by the pandemic.
Head of Policy and Communications, Paul Simon, thinks it's the most important budget in a generation.
He said: "For that reason Suffolk Chambers is very clear as to what it is asking Rishi Sunak to do. Firstly, to impose no new additional tax burdens on businesses for at least the foreseeable future.
"Secondly, to extend at least until June or July, or maybe beyond, all of the current Government business support schemes or whatever new equivalents might be in mind.
"Thirdly, we do support the need for targeted support, at least in the short term, for those sectors including retail, hospitality and culture, which has suffered the most in the Covid-19 pandemic."
Suffolk Chambers of Commerce is also hoping the budget will include longer-term support for growth sectors in Suffolk, including renewables, agricultural technology and other key sectors.