Businesses urge end to NI increase

In a 90-day challenge laid down to the incoming government, the British Chambers of Commerce set out a 12-step plan to promote business growth and economic recovery.

It said Labour's planned rise in employer National Insurance contributions in 2011 was a "tax on jobs" and must be cancelled.

Other proposals include freezing public sector pay, a radical plan for next-generation broadband and introducing a moratorium on any new employment law before 2014.

Its director general David Frost said the government must make concrete proposals to reduce red tape and tax burdens on business and commit to improving Britain's energy, transport and digital infrastructure.