'They didn't listen to businesses...we now expect price rises and job cuts'

BUSINESS bosses slammed Rachel Reeves for leaving them on a "cliff edge" with next week's tax hikes.

- By Steph Spyго Deputy Political Editor

The Chancellor made no changes to a raft of measures set to come into force from next Tuesday, including a rise in business rates.

Some companies will see their rates nearly double when relief is slashed to 40% from 75%.

Emma McClarkin, boss of the British Beer and Pub Association, blasted: "The spring statement was the perfect chance to sow the seeds of growth.

"But the Government missed the opportunity, has not listened to business and we can now expect to see prices rise, jobs at risk and growth downgraded.

"For a Government whose mission is growth, there is an alarming lack of a plan to boost the economy, given they've buried brewers and pubs under mountains of regulations, rates and taxes.

Gambler

"We can expect to see pubs close at a faster rate, which will risk growth and jobs and hurt the communities who rely on them.'