Commenting on todays’ Budget, Graham Robb, North East chair of the Institute of Directors said:
“This was a good budget for business and the self-employed. The cuts to small business rates will be welcome as will the reduction in corporation tax for all firms.
“In the North East the energy supply sector will be pleased that support is being offered to the oil and gas sector. Businesses with delivery and transport costs will be pleased that the Chancellor wasn’t tempted to increase the rate of fuel duty.
“The Northern Powerhouse has also taken some steps forward, the HS3 project has always found favour with IoD members and upgrading east-west road links is a priority we want to see addressed as soon as possible.
“These transport priorities were addressed in the Budget as was the important acknowledgement that educational gaps need addressing, we hope that the £20million being committed to meeting educational challenges is spent effectively.”