We've seen over £50billion of additional business tax since 1997 and the share of Government spending has continued to ratchet upwards.

Strongest growth has been in business with private individuals, partly by increased borrowing for house purchases and increased interest in savings products.

This is too much interference in business affairs. I'm fairly liberal-minded and I think the city should protect neighborhoods, but it shouldn't restrain a legitimate business.

I believe this legislation intrudes on the affairs of business. We need to refocus our efforts on protecting our communities through appropriate zoning. I believe, if we work with our neighborhoods, we can come up with the right solutions. I would love to see that happen.

With some notable exceptions, manufacturers continue to experience difficult times, with high energy costs continuing to add pressure to profit margins.

These figures confirm the picture of a manufacturing sector facing pressures from all sides.