Bankside’s Budget briefing

The annual event, organised by newly approved business improvement district Better Bankside, attracted representatives from a range of local companies from multinational banks to Borough Market traders.

Ed Crooks, UK news editor of the Southwark Bridge-based FT, described the Budget as "cunningly designed". He outlined some of the positive measures for business – including streamlined regulation – as well as some of the less welcome announcements. He fielded questions on a range of topics from the banking industry to pensions and transport.

The FT produced its first ever tabloid on Wednesday afternoon – a special free Budget edition, distributed to commuters at stations including Waterloo and Southwark.

• Better Bankside is inviting local businesses to a Eucharist for the Business Community and Breakfast at Southwark Cathedral on Wednesday 23 March at 8.15am. RSVP to [email protected]">[email protected]