Small business owners criticize UK budget for lacking support amid rising costs

Small business owners in the West Midlands criticized the UK budget for failing to address soaring operational costs. Butcher Kevin Evans and chip shop owner Lutfu Efe said the new measures, including a 3.9% minimum wage increase and a £100 council tax payment, would not help their businesses. Plasterer Glen Gandy highlighted fuel costs of £350 a week, while Efe reported electricity bills nearly doubling from around £300 to £800 a month. Gwyneth Totney welcomed the £100 payment for households.