What They Said...

In these exceptional economic circumstances, I want to take fair and responsible steps to protect and support businesses and people now – while putting the public finances on the right path for the future.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Alistair Darling

Listening to the Chancellor's speech, no one can be in any doubt that the Prime Minister's claim to have abolished boom and bust is one of the biggest deceits ever told to the British public.

Shadow Chancellor, George Osborne

If I were marking the Chancellor’s report card, I’d say ‘could do better’.

David Frost, British Chambers of Commerce

Many of these measures [...] will give small businesses a welcome breather from the taxman and allow them to concentrate on sustaining their business, supporting their staff and growing the economy in the long term.

John Walker,Federation of Small Businesses