Commenting on today’s Autumn Statement, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce President Mark Nodder said:

“The policies announced by the Chancellor in the Autumn Statement must make their way to implementation in Northern Ireland. Increased support around business finance and export development are very welcome but Northern Ireland has been at the margins of UK policy in these areas. The Chancellor’s rates freeze will be welcomed in England but as control over Northern Ireland business rates lies with the NI Executive, our own businesses need reassurance that this cost won’t rise here too.

We also eagerly await the Executive’s response to the block grant boost of £176m which can be used by Stormont to cut energy bills if they wish to do so. We urge the Northern Ireland Executive to use this opportunity to help businesses combat rising energy costs.”