Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), said: “This is an important budget as the Chancellor sets his stall out with the tailwind of a general election victory behind him.
“We support the Government’s long-term continued focus on deficit reduction. The Chancellor must also seize this opportunity to deliver measures to boost productivity and nurture sustainable, long-term economic growth.
“For many of our 800 plus membership that means such policies as a fundamental reform of business rates, greater help for exporters and support for business investment to enable growth.
“Major infrastructure improvements would be welcomed by many businesses in Dorset in key areas such as transport, telecoms, energy and digital and wireless connectivity. This is essential in the continued growth of the Dorset economy.
“A sizeable number of businesses in the Chamber, which represents some 37,000 employees, also want to see greater emphasis on equipping young people with the skills they need in the workplace. This is an area we feel passionate about in Dorset Chamber.”
He added: “There is still a lot of work to do for the Chancellor, who must see this budget as a chance to put the building blocks in place for long term growth as well as an opportunity to further focus on public spending and deficit reduction.”
