And how about some of Swindon's largest firms? How will the Budget affect them?

With Nationwide, Honda and Motorola being among the town's largest employers, they doubtless will be hoping that no further NI increases are announced, while Motorola and Honda in particular would probably welcome any further developments on Research & development Tax Credits.

Nationwide: Nationwide will want economic stability with little threat of a slump in house prices in order to ensure people borrow for new mortgages, and avoid repossess-ions and negative equity situations.

Motorola: As an information communications company Motorola may well hope for increased capital allowances on computer and communications equipment, in the hope that this will encourage more consumers to buy their products.

Honda: Close attention to any further refinements in company car and fuel benefits will be important to Honda. Any significant changes may impact on its decisions on future models.