A SURVEY by Taunton MP Adrian Flook has found local businesses are struggling to cope with changes brought in by this year's Budget.

Mr Flook asked 1,200 local firms about the impact of the Budget on their business.

The results show traders predict a rocky ride and also reveal that many are drowning in red tape.

Mr Flook branded the increased NI contributions a "stealth tax".

"It's clear from replies to the survey that the rise in National Insurance is having a far bigger impact than many people assumed - and on a scale greater than expected.

"As the economy is clearly in some trouble already, I am disturbed at the consequences this stealth tax will have in the months ahead.

"It is becoming all too clear that the Chancellor's decision to raise National Insurance for both employers and employees from this month will result in local companies seeing their profits fall, the prices they charge rise, and the number of people they recruit cut."

See full story in the County Gazette (Friday, May 2).