Good news for sector but could do much better

EXPERTS in small business affairs gave a mixed reaction to a Budget they said included steps in the right direction but failed to provide the big boost the sector needed.

The Chancellor's decision to proceed with the expected cut in the higher rate of income tax, to 45% from April 2013 from 50% currently, won applause following repeated claims it was stifling entrepreneurs.

"I think it's good news," said Mark Houston, a partner at Johnston Carmichael accountants, who reckoned the change would make the UK a more attractive place to do business.

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