"Resilient" Lancashire businesses face "crucial six months" ahead of Spring Statement
The Chancellor will issue an update on the country's finances tomorrow
Lancashire business leaders face a "crucial six months" ahead of the Chancellor's Spring Statement tomorrow.
After tax changes were introduced by Rachel Reeves last October, bosses in the north west say they're still struggling to navigate "choppy waters".
Nick Hyde, policy manager at The North and Western Lancashire's Chamber of Commerce (NWLCC), insists that business leaders are simply looking for "greater confidence" going forward.
"After last October's budget, I think they're quite happy to be left alone for this budget", he said.
"There were major taxes introduced on doing business with the increase in employers' National Insurance contributions which made it more difficult to do business and grow the economy."
"There are really worrying times ahead"
Mr Hyde added: ""I think the next six months are absolutely crucial to this economy, and I think it's crucial to our members, as well.
"The business community in Lancashire is very resilient, but there are really worrying times ahead."
On the lead-up to tomorrow's statement, the economic headlines have been dominated by cuts to benefits and to some government departments, with very little in the way of business updates.
Regardless, business bosses will be listening closely.
"The devil is forever in the detail. I just hope that there are no big shocks in store", Mr Hyde added.
"There are usually rumours and leaks, but we haven't had anything like that.
"What the business community is looking for is a road map for growth."
Rachel Reeves will deliver the Spring Statement after Prime Minister’s Questions, at around 12.30pm tomorrow.
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