This week, the British Chambers of Commerce announced that business confidence is at its lowest level in two years. Hardworking businesses have been hit hard by the Chancellor’s budget, as I predicted.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve heard directly from local employers in Faversham and Mid Kent about the impact of these measures. At a Business Breakfast roundtable I hosted recently, a range of local businesses were seriously worried about the National Insurance hike and above-inflation increase to the Minimum Wage. They called the budget catastrophic and many said they’ll be forced to raise prices, scale back investments, or reduce staff to make ends meet.
Businesses are the backbone of our community. They create jobs, drive economic growth, and support local families. Yet, the Chancellor’s Budget makes it harder for them to thrive and support the rest of our community. Businesses I’ve spoken with say the Government does not have a clue. I want to assure local employers that I’m listening and will do all I can to stand up for them. I’m determined to fight for policies that support growth, protect jobs, and strengthen our local economy.
If you’re a local business owner, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to share your concerns and I will try to do what I can to help.
