Set against a backdrop of sluggish economic growth, rising unemployment, and uncertainty in Europe, the Autumn Statement included a number of measures designed to strengthen the economy.
A series of announcements targeted small and medium-sized enterprises, in recognition that without such firms, economic growth would struggle further. The much anticipated credit easing, in the form of the National Loan Guarantee Scheme is designed to help small businesses secure cheaper finance, while £1 billion has been allocated to help medium-sized enterprises through the Business Finance Partnership.
Other significant announcements included the National Infrastructure Plan, which will see up to £30 billion of new capital investment pumped into energy, transport, telecommunications, waste and water. As well as the housing strategy, designed to kick start the housing market.
