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The boss of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce has urged the chancellor to provide businesses with 'relief from escalating taxes' ahead of the Spring Statement.

The call from chief executive John Brown comes as Rachel Reeves prepares to deliver her address to Parliament on Wednesday (March 26) against a backdrop of weak economic growth and high government borrowing.

Ms Reeves has already ruled out so-called "tax and spend" policies, but has signalled some cuts could be made to government departments, including the civil service.

Her Autumn Budget was heavily criticised by the business community after she announced a rise in national insurance contributions for employers - up from from 13.8% to 15% - and which comes into force next week.

Mr Brown said: “Cornwall’s businesses have continually proven their resilience, but we cannot be asked to shoulder still more burdens without the means to grow and innovate."

Mr Brown has also called for "streamlined regulations and incentives for investment" to boost growth. He added: "[It would] protect jobs, maintain momentum, and help Cornwall thrive.”

The British Chamber of Commerce, the national business group, has echoed Mr Brown's calls. It says a "wider tax roadmap", which includes national insurance and business rates, is needed to give firms a clearer idea of when costs will be lowered.

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Businesses are feeling battered and bruised by the heavy cost pressures looming within days. The chancellor must use her Spring Statement to offer some respite.