GREATER Manchester Chamber chiefs have given their reaction on future Government plans to help businesses.

And they have bemoaned the lack of Government commitment towards upgrading of the infrastructure of Britains road, rail and light rail network.

Angie Robinson, chief executive of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: "The roads of Greater Manchester are snarled up and capacity on the rail network is severely stretched, yet the only improvements announced for transport were in London.

"Businesses here are crying out for a more reliable transport network that will move goods, services and people quickly and efficiently."

Among the positive Bills announced for business, the Chamber adds, is the regulatory reform bill which will attempt to scale back on red tape generated by Whitehall and set targets for scrapping unnecessary rules. In addition, firms in the region will welcome the company law bill, making it easier to set up and run a new business.

Chamber bosses also say wider measures to crack down on crime and anti-social behaviour are expected to be greeted with satisfaction by the business community, many of whom have suffered intimidation, graffiti and theft.

On the plans to increase statutory maternity pay from 26 weeks to 39 weeks, the Chamber says can be seen as a double-edged sword - beneficial to parents by difficult for smaller firms to fund.