Budget has crushed hopes for small businesses as Chancellor has fallen short of what's needed.

"Small businesses across the country remain on the brink, while millions of workers remain excluded from Government support altogether, " said Christine Jardine MP, Treasury Spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats after the Chancellor of the Echequer finished speaking on the Budget .

"Small businesses were looking to the Chancellor to give them a lifeline - something to give them hope of getting through the next few months. Instead for many, the Chancellor's paltry proposals for small business support will have crushed those hopes.

"From beauticians to launderettes, florists to café owners - small businesses in our communities and the millions who depend on them are left looking over a cliff-edge. The Chancellor had the opportunity to save them today, but instead he fell far short of what is needed.

Cllr Robin Ashby, who speaks on business matter fro Newcastle Liberal Democrats, added : "The amendment we are proposing to Newcastle City Council tonight shows that the Liberal Democrats have ambitions for the small businesses which are the heart of our local communities, and which can set us on the road towards a strong and green economy of the future. We invite Council to share our ambitions."