Failure to deliver States savings 'could trigger danger for economy'

GROWING calls are coming from the business community for the States to stick firm to its cost-cutting targets.

Business figures fear 'inevitable' tax rises if the efficiency savings are not met through the Financial Transformation Programme.

It follows the news that the FTP – key to eliminating the States' deficit – is nearly £8m. off target.

Anne Ewing, chairman of the local branch of the Institute of Directors, was among those who said the States must deliver.

'It is hugely frustrating we are still talking about it and not getting on with it,' she said.

'It is a big ask of the government. It involves new thinking and new architecture of work. It is a huge challenge, but it has got to happen and should happen.'