THE government’s ‘mini budget’ has been blasted for not doing enough to meet climate change targets and help people deal with the cost of living crisis.

Wiltshire Wildlife Community Energy chair Julian Barlow said: “The people of Wiltshire have every reason to be underwhelmed by the mini budget when it comes to meeting our net zero obligations.

“More than 100 of the UK's top businesses - most already operating in the county - urged the prime minister to take action to accelerate the clean energy transition, arguing that a faster shift away from fossil fuels can help to tackle the current energy crisis whilst also enabling the UK to reach its longer-term climate and nature goals.

“Sadly, the mini budget failed to deliver any appreciable incentives or support to increase the energy efficiency of homes and businesses, no strategy to deliver industrial decarbonisation, and little support for policies and market frameworks that enable an accelerated rollout of low-cost renewable energy projects.

“What we have seen is a ramping up of domestic oil and gas production as a key pillar of Liz Truss’ plan to tackle the energy crisis, confirmation that the ban on fracking is to be lifted, and a continuous stream of negative comments around solar and wind.

“The government has gambled on growth, however many of the planned tax cuts are merely a continuation of current policy or a reversion to where we were last year.

“The question is how more of the same can bring about change and boost growth in our county? This is a sticking plaster approach when the patient needs major surgery.”

Business West’s director of policy Matt Griffith added: “It’s positive to see the announcement of new investment zones within the broader southwest which could attract jobs and growth into the region. We look forward to examining the details.

“For companies making profits the cancellation of the planned corporation tax rise due in April 2023 will be welcome, and all businesses investing in new plant and machinery will get the continued benefit of the annual investment allowance which had been due to fall.

“The biggest measure for local employers is the long-trailed cancellation of the national insurance increases.

“This cut partially offsets the backdrop of higher costs of doing business. The cost of the package overall hasn’t been published but will add significantly to the government borrowing totals.

“We await further details on the reforms announced by HM Treasury.”