The autumn Budget has sparked a mixed reaction as businesses and charities face “fighting” rising costs
A promise to shield households from some cost of living pressures was the focus of John Healey’s first budget as chancellor – saying the plans would offer “breathing space”.
But reaction across Shropshire was mixed, with businesses, charities and politicians divided over whether the measures will go far enough.
Harry Delves, who runs Tuffins Supermarket in Craven Arms, said there was little in the announcement that would significantly affect his business.
He said: “We all knew about the national living wage that was going to be increasing from April, so that’s something that we just need to build into our forecast for the following year.”
While he welcomed the extension of the 5p fuel duty cut, Delves said he did not see “any big announcements or major changes” that would “supercharge the UK economy.
“In all, it’s quite uneventful. We shall see how everything starts to turn out.”
Scott Adams, owner of Telford Exotic Zoo, described the Budget as “underwhelming” and said there was “really nothing in there” that would directly help visitor attractions.
Instead, he hoped any extra money in consumers’ pockets could encourage more spending on leisure activities.
“If people feel maybe like they’ve got a little bit more money in their pocket, then maybe they’d be more willing to go out and spend money on luxuries, like going for days out,” he said.
Adams said businesses continued to struggle with rising costs.
“Our electric costs have gone out of control. Animal feeds, anything that we’re buying in since the pandemic, there’s just been one excuse after another to double the price.
“Instead of enjoying running a business, it seems like you’re always fighting. You’re always fighting to make enough money to buy everything that you need.”
He added: “There’s not really any help or support out there at all at the moment.”
