Simon Boyd, Managing Director of Christchurch-based REIDsteel which works throughout the UK and exports worldwide , said: “It was a positive Budget as we look ahead to negotiations for Brexit.
“I am fully supportive of the Government and the work it has to do, and this Budget will help prepare the grounds for a strong economy during this time.
“From a business point of view there was good news with the reduction in Corporation Tax to 17%. The support for social care is welcome although a fundamental reform of the whole system is needed in the long term.
“The rise in the National Living Wage is also welcome because we believe in a decent wage for the UK workforce.
“Low productivity is a perennial issue and some companies prefer to employ cheap labour rather than invest in new technology, which is one of the measures required to help productivity levels rise.
“Funding for infrastructure improvements must always be a priority. I will be writing to East Dorset District Council and Christchurch Borough Council with an offer to meet to brainstorm ideas to win a slice of the £690m prize money available to ease local transport congestion.
“Overall it was a strong Budget aimed at economic stability which has put some strong foundations in place as we approach Brexit.”
