Paul Cherpeau, chief executive of Liverpool Chamber, said:
“In the immediate term, businesses will hope to see the government recognise the impending financial pain of National Insurance and National Minimum Wage increases and offer them some relief.
“The current difficulties facing many organisations here in the Liverpool City Region and across the UK risk derailing any long-term plans for economic growth, no matter how detailed they may be, and this underlines the importance of the government getting its industrial strategy right and reassuring businesses that the UK is set up for a prosperous future.
“It is also a reminder of the importance of regular, clear dialogue with businesses about their needs and ensuring that further devolution, including the make-up of any integrated settlements, gives combined authorities and businesses the power to work together on ‘bottom up’ solutions that truly deliver for local communities and economies.”