Business confidence in the UK has fallen sharply, with 63 per cent of firms citing taxation as a key concern, the highest since 2017, post-Budget.
Only 49 per cent expect turnover to rise, down from 56 per cent in Q3, while 21 per cent foresee a decline, per BCC survey.
Labour costs and inflation remain significant pressures.
Investment plans are shrinking, especially in retail and manufacturing.