The leader of Rutland County Council has welcomed this week's budget, praising its support for business.

But he repeated warnings about how county councils are funded.

Coun Oliver Hemsley said: "The additional support announced today by the Chancellor of the Exchequer is welcome news, and provides additional clarity on the on-going support the Government will be making available to residents and businesses as Rutland and the rest of the country moves out of lockdown and rebuilds following the Coronavirus pandemic.

"The Chancellor's Budget will help to provide additional support for residents and businesses in Rutland. The extension of the Government's furlough scheme and the continuation of the £20 increase in Universal Credit payments will support those who have been worst affected by the pandemic.

"In addition, Rutland's high streets and small and medium sized businesses will be given a boost with the business rates holiday extension until the end of June and the Government's Restart Grant for businesses planned to reopen in April. The measures announced by the Chancellor are a real vote of confidence for our businesses to bounce back and rebuild as lockdown restrictions ease."

Whilst appreciating the additional support announced this week, Councillor Hemsley added: "The Chancellor's budget inevitably has a short term focus.

"The importance of local government in responding to the pandemic cannot be under estimated and it was disappointing the Chancellor did not announce timings of the Fairer Funding Review, which will set new funding baselines for Local Authorities.

"Funding for Councils like Rutland is essential to protect vital services such as social care and education. Without additional funding all councils' capacities to support communities will be at risk."

"The Chancellor's budget inevitably has a short term focus. The importance of local government in responding to the pandemic cannot be under estimated and it was disappointing the Chancellor did not announce timings of the Fairer Funding Review, which will set new funding baselines for Local Authorities.

"Funding for Councils like Rutland is essential to protect vital services such as social care and education. Without additional funding all councils' capacities to support communities will be at risk."