FSB welcomes new financial package for North

The North’s largest business organisation, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), has given a cautious welcome to the announcement by British Chancellor Gordon Brown outlining details of the financial package for the North.

“While we are seeking further information on the Chancellor's statement, it is clear that some progress has been made in improving the package on offer to Northern Ireland,” said FSB policy chairman, Wilfred Mitchell.

“We welcome the review led by Sir David Varney on the different tax rates, north and south, the Innovation Fund and the extra £1bn (€1.47bn) for infrastructure.

“The FSB will also be seeking clarification on the retail consortium and what impact this will have on our existing indigenous retail sector.”

“Senior representatives from all five main political parties are addressing our National Conference in Belfast over the next two days and our 800 delegates will no doubt be interested in their views on the package.”