Lancashire business community eyes looming Autumn Statement with trepidation

Beleaguered Lancashire shopkeepers are waiting with bated breath for the Chancellor’s Autumn statement - but not expecting any favours.

With all of these bleak predictions in mind, we took to the streets of Lancashire to find out what people think of the cost of living crisis, and what they would like to see in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement to help people. Over at The Friary, a fish and chip shop on King Street in Whalley, owner Daniel Stevenson says he has "weathered the storm" so far - but wonders if a VAT cut would be helpful.

“I'm hoping we don't have to put them up a fourth time - if you don't pass it on, it becomes not viable and you might as well pack up. In 2010, our price list says fish and chips was £3.90; now it's nearly £10, so it's frightening when you think how much stuff has gone up. Equally pragmatic is Alex Smith, of specialist shop Whalley Warm and Dry, at the end of King Street, who says that business is good at their end, despite it "not being the best situation for everyone". Top of his priority list is help with energy bills and help with taxes for employees, he said, adding: “I would probably say it needs help with energy and cutting taxes for our staff would not go amiss.

"I've noticed there's a big difference and things have gone up, even when I go to Aldi and Lidl. This is a lovely shop - I don't think people have the surplus money to buy things like we are selling here like candles, baby clothes, jewellery.”

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